For years, “AI in construction” floated around as a futuristic talking point — something interesting, something promising, but not something most teams could actually use. That’s changed. Fast.
Across Australia, the conversation has shifted from curiosity to capability. Instead of asking, “What is AI?”, project teams are now asking, “How do we implement this on our jobs tomorrow?” And that shift is happening because early adopters are already seeing measurable wins.
Why AI Is Finally Delivering on Its Promise:
Construction has always been rich with data — models, schedules, RFIs, site photos, safety reports, cost plans, and more. The challenge was never the lack of information; it was the lack of time and tools to make sense of it.
AI is closing that gap.
Today’s tools are no longer experimental. They’re practical, accessible, and built around real project workflows. The most common applications gaining traction across Australian projects include:
- Automated Clash Detection & Model Intelligence
AI-enhanced clash detection goes beyond traditional rule‑based checks. It identifies patterns, predicts recurring coordination issues, and highlights high‑risk zones before they become costly rework. Teams are reporting faster coordination cycles and fewer late‑stage surprises.
- Schedule Optimisation
AI can analyse thousands of sequencing options in minutes, flagging bottlenecks, resource conflicts, and opportunities to compress timelines. Instead of relying on a single planner’s experience, teams gain a data‑driven view of the most efficient path forward.
- Cost Control & Quantity Insights
From automated quantity extraction to predictive cost forecasting, AI is helping estimators and commercial teams tighten accuracy and reduce manual effort. It’s not replacing expertise — it’s amplifying it.
- Site Risk Reduction
Computer vision and predictive analytics are being used to identify unsafe conditions, track site progress, and detect deviations from planned work. This is where AI’s value becomes tangible: fewer incidents, better compliance, and clearer visibility for site managers.
- Predictive Analytics for Project Health
AI can surface early warning signs long before they appear in monthly reports — schedule drift, coordination hotspots, procurement risks, or subcontractor performance issues. It gives leaders the ability to act early rather than react late.
The Real Question: How Do We Implement This?
This is the question we hear most often now — and it’s the right one.
The firms seeing the biggest gains aren’t the ones chasing every new tool. They’re the ones focusing on:
- Clear use cases tied to project pain points
- Data readiness (clean models, structured workflows, consistent documentation)
- Upskilling teams so AI becomes a natural extension of existing processes
- Incremental adoption rather than “big bang” transformation
- Strong BIM foundations — because AI is only as good as the information it learns from
AI isn’t replacing people. It’s removing the friction that slows them down.
AI in Action: Case Studies Where Construction AI Delivered Real ROI in Australia
Metro Trains Melbourne signs deal with Laing O’Rourke to deploy AI
Artificial intelligence is being used by Metro Trains Melbourne to improve safety at metropolitan construction sites.
The technology, called Toolbox Spotter, detects objects, understands what they are and then determines what actions to take in real-time to improve safety on work sites.
Read more – Metro Trains signs deal with Laing O’Rourke to deploy AI – Inside Construction
Telstra Improves Efficiency and Safety while Inspecting their Towers with AI and 3D models
Seeking alternative inspection methods to reduce operating costs and increase safety risks for all personnel Telstra engaged Sitesee. . . read on – SiteSee Created Efficient Inspection Method for Telstra Corporation’s Tower – Streamlined Modeling Process to Reduce Project Delivery Time – Bentley Systems Europe B.V. – PDF Catalogs | Technical Documentation | Brochure
Laing O’Rourke Australia Is Leveraging AI to Enhance Its Training Library
Laing O’Rourke Australia, a premier construction and engineering firm in the country, is revolutionizing its employee training approach using artificial intelligence (AI).
Co-piloting Construction: John Holland Embraces Generative AI to Enhance the Productivity of its Workforce
Over the past six years, John Holland has increased its focus on technology and digital transformation. A key pillar of its digital transformation strategy, launched in 2021, is rapidly emerging capabilities such as AI, digital twins and the Internet of Things.
From machine learning to advanced AI Assistants – Copiloting construction: John Holland embraces generative AI to enhance the productivity of its workforce – Microsoft Australia News Centre
Testimonials
Thank you for all your efforts on our projects; they have been an invaluable contribution to their success. We look forward to working with you on future projects.
Ian Ferguson MPM Group
Jess and Karl at Draftech were amazing. The communication from the start was prompt, and the entire process was extremely easy. We needed their knowledge on Air Schematics, and they had made one up for our buildings that we service. Thanks so much, and we will be using you guys in the future. Cheers, Air Control Australia.
Greg Colebrook AirControl Australia
With Draftech’s thorough understanding of building services modelling and close attention to detail, Forth has been afforded the opportunity to outsource some of our BIM projects with absolute confidence in the accuracy of the final product.
Gary Murdoch Forth Consulting
Very professional and efficient organization. Delivered a great product to a tight deadline.
ACE Power
Karl and the team are very professional and have a vast knowledge of BIM coordination.
Dwayne Willaims Babinda Electrics
We had multiple large projects with tight deadlines and needed a company we could trust. The teams delivery, attention to detail and understanding of what is being designed is always executed to a high standard.
Martin O’Donovan Envar Engineers
Draftech offered a flexible and reliable approach to working collaboratively with our team. They met our expectations and quality requirements and also offered up new ideas.
Draftech have proven to be a valuable and trustworthy resource and we will continue to work with Draftech on other projects.
Simon Marsden Umow Lai
Draftech is different from others in the professionalism and features they provide.
The ability to walk through projects in real time online provides invaluable insight into problem areas and helps provide an efficient resolution on the spot without many phone calls, emails and the necessity for us to paw through countless drawings to understand the issues.
Todd Morris Manager - Air mech
Draftech were put forward to FIP Electrical as the solution to Coordinate, Model, carry out clash detection, provide Electrical Services Shop Drawings, as built documentation and completed electrical model.
Simon Thorpe FIP Electrical
In close collaboration Draftech set up all our systems and model deliverables. In this process Draftech have proven to be a valuable resource for us and demonstrated commitment, understanding and professionalism.
David Skelley DJCoalition
Draftech’s attention to detail and proactive nature throughout the project assisted us in identifying issues before becoming evident on site, saving us both time and unexpected costs.
Matt Payne PJM Engineering Services
They delivered very high quality Revit models and associated 2D documentation at key milestones, working to a tight budget and in strict accordance with the Architects’ BIM requirements.
Peter Thomas Geoff Hesford
We found Draftech’s work to be of high standard and the team delivered exactly as agreed, in fact, when we considered the project complete, Draftech put further resources into the project as they were not satisfied.
John Johnson Beca
Engaging Draftech during design gave us the tools to make smart decisions.
Hansen Yuncken Design Manager - Michael Harkins
The drafting service is timely, reliable and fit for purpose for the built environment.
Peter Harvey Harvey Industries
Draftech stands apart from other drafting services that we have previously used in their attention to detail and ability to adapt to the individual client’s requirements.
Doug Holt McCaig Aircon
I can confidently recommend Draftech as a solid and reliable supplier, and experts in their field. I look forward to working with them again in the near future.
Chris Behan Norman Disney & Young
After seeing the benefits Draftech provided us on the Townsville Hospital Redevelopment we have set up a relationship with Draftech and intend to continue to use their BIM knowledge and skills for our future projects.
Brad Lund Energy Power Systems
Draftech has no competition as they are in a class of their own.
John Boyes Babinda Electrics
Draftech Developments Drafting and Design Capabilities, in conjunction with their outstanding level of Client service and support has provided great solutions to our engineering and Drafting Design portions within our Gorgon Barrow Island Project.
Aaron Hazelton Applied Electro Systems Pty Ltd
Draftech set up necessary systems and workflows very quickly, but also setup auditable estimating and weekly cost tracking processes that we utilised, requiring little maintenance.
TOM PURDON MPM GROUP
