Atlassian’s $1.4 Billion Hybrid Timber Tower Tops Out as World’s Tallest, Surpassing Previous Record
Atlassian’s ambitious $1.4 billion hybrid timber headquarters in Sydney has reached a major construction milestone, officially topping out as the world’s tallest hybrid timber tower. Standing at 180 metres and spanning 39 storeys, the skyscraper surpasses the previous record-holder, Milwaukee’s Ascent tower, marking a significant achievement in sustainable high-rise construction.
Located above Sydney’s Central Station, the building is being developed as Atlassian’s global headquarters in partnership with property developer Dexus. The project is designed to accommodate thousands of employees while serving as a symbol of environmentally conscious architecture and innovation.
Unlike traditional skyscrapers built primarily from steel and concrete, the tower uses a hybrid structural system that combines engineered mass timber with steel and concrete. This approach significantly reduces the building’s embodied carbon while maintaining the strength and safety required for a structure of its size. The extensive use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glued laminated timber (glulam) highlights the growing role of sustainable materials in modern construction.
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The building has also been designed with a strong focus on environmental performance. Features such as natural ventilation, energy-efficient systems, landscaped terraces, and abundant greenery are expected to reduce operational energy consumption while creating a healthier workplace for occupants. Prefabricated timber components have also helped improve construction efficiency and minimise waste.
Construction of the tower began in 2022 as part of Sydney’s Tech Central innovation precinct. While the structural frame is now complete, work will continue on the façade, interiors, mechanical systems, and landscaping before the building opens in 2027.
The project represents a major milestone for both Australia’s construction industry and the global push toward low-carbon buildings. As cities worldwide search for more sustainable ways to develop urban infrastructure, Atlassian’s headquarters demonstrates that timber can play a central role in constructing large-scale commercial skyscrapers. Its completion is expected to inspire similar hybrid timber developments around the world, setting a new benchmark for sustainable architecture and engineering.
Origin Energy Says Data Security Incident Investigation Remains Ongoing
Origin Energy has confirmed that its investigation into a recent data security incident is ongoing after unauthorized access to customer information was detected, raising concerns over the cybersecurity of one of Australia’s largest energy providers.
The company said it is working closely with cybersecurity specialists, government agencies, and law enforcement authorities to determine the full scope of the breach. While the investigation continues, Origin has begun notifying affected customers and has established support channels to address concerns and provide updates.
According to the company, the compromised information may include customers’ names, contact details, dates of birth, addresses, account information, and limited financial details. However, Origin has stated that there is no evidence at this stage that full payment card details or account passwords have been exposed. The company emphasized that its assessment is ongoing and that additional findings may emerge as forensic investigations continue.
Origin’s Chief Executive apologized to customers, acknowledging the seriousness of the incident and reaffirming the company’s commitment to protecting customer information. The company has implemented additional security measures to strengthen its systems and prevent any further unauthorized access while the investigation is underway.
Customers have been advised to remain alert for suspicious emails, phone calls, and text messages that may attempt to exploit the breach through phishing or identity theft. Origin has encouraged customers to verify communications claiming to be from the company and to report any unusual account activity immediately.
The incident adds to a growing number of cyberattacks targeting major Australian organizations, highlighting the increasing threat posed by sophisticated cybercriminals. It also underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity practices across critical infrastructure sectors that manage large volumes of sensitive customer data.
As forensic experts continue to examine the affected systems, Origin Energy has pledged to keep customers informed and provide further updates as more information becomes available. The company has reiterated that protecting customer data remains a top priority and that efforts to fully understand the incident are continuing.
Perth Airport’s Skyfields Enters Major Delivery Phase as Dunreath Green Site Works Conclude
Perth Airport’s flagship Skyfields development has reached a major milestone with the completion of site works at Dunreath Green, paving the way for the project to enter its next phase of delivery. The achievement marks the transition from foundational infrastructure works to the construction of residential, commercial, and community facilities within the precinct.
Dunreath Green is the first neighbourhood to be developed as part of the broader Skyfields masterplan, an ambitious project aimed at transforming land surrounding Perth Airport into a vibrant mixed-use destination. Essential infrastructure, including roads, drainage systems, utility networks, landscaping, and public open spaces, has now been completed, allowing building works to commence.
The Skyfields development is expected to play a significant role in supporting Perth’s long-term urban growth by creating a modern precinct that integrates residential living with business, retail, and recreational opportunities. The project has been designed to meet increasing demand for housing and commercial space while taking advantage of its strategic location near one of Australia’s busiest airports.
Plans for the precinct include a diverse mix of homes, office spaces, retail outlets, hospitality venues, hotels, parks, and community facilities. The development is also expected to attract businesses linked to aviation, logistics, tourism, and professional services, creating new employment opportunities and strengthening the region’s economy.
Sustainability is a key focus of the project, with features such as pedestrian-friendly streets, cycling paths, landscaped green spaces, and environmentally conscious infrastructure incorporated into the design. Water-sensitive urban planning and energy-efficient development practices are also expected to contribute to the precinct’s long-term resilience.
The completion of the initial infrastructure works represents a significant step forward in bringing the Skyfields vision to life. As construction activity accelerates, the project is expected to become a major gateway precinct for Perth, offering a connected, sustainable, and vibrant urban environment. Once fully developed, Skyfields will combine residential, commercial, and lifestyle amenities, positioning the airport precinct as an important centre for future growth and investment in Western Australia.
Sherpa Property Acquires Second Brisbane Site for $27 Million, Expands Flourish Housing Model
Sherpa Property has expanded its footprint in Brisbane with the acquisition of a second development site valued at $27 million, reinforcing its commitment to delivering affordable housing through its Flourish residential model. The latest purchase reflects the developer’s strategy of addressing housing affordability while catering specifically to first-home buyers entering the property market.
The newly acquired site will be transformed into a residential community designed to provide modern homes at more accessible price points. The Flourish model focuses on balancing affordability with quality construction, sustainable design, and community-focused planning, making it an attractive option for young professionals, couples, and growing families.
The acquisition comes amid continued pressure on Australia’s housing market, where rising property prices, increasing construction costs, and higher interest rates have made home ownership more challenging for first-time buyers. By targeting this segment of the market, Sherpa Property aims to help bridge the gap between affordability and quality housing.
Plans for the development include a mix of contemporary homes integrated with landscaped open spaces, pedestrian-friendly streets, and shared community amenities. The project is expected to promote a connected lifestyle while offering residents convenient access to public transport, schools, shopping centres, and employment hubs.
Sherpa Property has stated that its Flourish model is built around creating well-designed neighbourhoods that support long-term community growth rather than simply delivering residential buildings. Sustainability features, efficient land use, and thoughtful urban planning are expected to play key roles in the development.
Brisbane remains one of Australia’s fastest-growing property markets, driven by strong population growth, ongoing infrastructure investment, and increasing demand for new housing. Developers continue to view the city as a key location for long-term residential projects, particularly those focused on improving housing accessibility.
With the acquisition of its second Brisbane site, Sherpa Property is continuing its expansion strategy while strengthening its position in the affordable housing sector. The project is expected to contribute to the city’s growing housing supply and provide more opportunities for first-home buyers seeking quality homes at attainable prices.
