Education Centre of Australia – 655 Collins Street

Following a request for proposal and site inspection, it became clear very quickly that we were the right partner for the project. At the time, the client was in the midst of lease negotiations and had already been working speculatively on the site. They required a design and construct partner capable of capturing the full complexity of the project while delivering a highly fit for purpose education environment that reflected the future direction of their business.

ECA’s vision was to establish one of the best education spaces in Melbourne, an intentional departure from the typically cost-driven, second-hand environments common across most RTOs.

The Challenge

The project involved a full education design with significant complexity, including a change of use that triggered planning approvals and multiple compliance codes.

Key challenges included managing change of use requirements and associated planning and regulatory implications, designing compliant, functional education and meeting room spaces, identifying hidden risks and “gotcha” moments uncovered during due diligence that had not been previously identified by the client and delivering speed, certainty, and clarity during an active lease negotiation period, without upfront commercial commitment.

The client needed confidence that nothing critical was being missed, particularly around compliance, risk and long-term usability.

The Solution

With zero commercial investment upfront, we were able to rapidly apply our process to identify key fit for purpose requirements and produce a comprehensive submission focused on both aesthetics and functionality. This early work clearly differentiated us and positioned us as a standout in the decision making process.

We delivered an exceptionally thorough design, costing and delivery strategy at speed, providing the client with clarity and confidence. Through detailed due diligence, we identified the importance of change of use elements and documented an extensive list of compliance requirements eliminating risk and surprises later in the project.

Operating within a fully vertical design and construct environment, Agero held the risk and delivered a disciplined, accountable process through to handover. We prioritised waste avoidance, sustainable strip-out and ESG outcomes – key priorities for both ECA and the landlord, ensuring the project aligned with broader sustainability goals while delivering one of Melbourne’s leading education environments.

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What Our Clients Say

Dermaq Aesthetics Henry & Madeline

“We engaged Agero for the design and fit-out of our five room clinical space at the end of last year. We couldn’t be happier with the end result, and look forward to collaborating with them in the future on our next project”

Aitken Partners Edwin Clark

“Agero was a delight to work with. The workmanship was top notch and they delivered on time, on budget. Wow / could not be more impressed with Agero”

Telstra Purple Dan Healy

“Agero and Telstra Purple have had a relationship that spans over 6 years and several million dollars. Agero are professional, sophisticated, supportive and highly dependable”