James Hardie officially broke ground earlier this year on the construction of a new People Centre at our Carole Park manufacturing site in Queensland, marking a significant investment in the future of its workforce and operations in Australia.

The sod-turning ceremony was attended by Charis Mullen MP, Member for Jordan, and Councillor Pye Augustine from Ipswich City Council, alongside James Hardie team members and representatives from Ink Duck, the architecture firm, and FDC Construction & Fitout QLD, the project’s appointed builder.

James-Hardie-ground-breaking-ceremony-carole-park-people-centre (2).jpg — *Charis Mullen MP, John Arneil, Councillor Pye Augustine*

A hub for collaboration and wellbeing

The Carole Park People Centre has been designed to support a modern, connected, and high-performing workforce. Once complete, the single-storey facility will feature upgraded workspaces, meeting rooms, employee amenities and a large indoor dining area, creating a central hub for collaboration, wellbeing, and day-to-day operations.

Speaking at the event, John Arneil, APAC President at James Hardie, shared the significance of the project:

“Today is an exciting occasion – we are officially starting the construction of James Hardie’s newest People Centre. This new building has been thoughtfully designed to support our team with new workspaces, meeting rooms, and amenities that reflect our commitment to a healthy, productive, and connected workplace. We’re proud to play a role in creating local jobs, strengthening Australian manufacturing, and supporting the communities we’re part of.”

The facility will prominently feature products from the Hardie™ Architectural Collection on the exterior and interior, demonstrating the versatility and performance of our fibre cement solutions in a commercial setting. From exterior cladding to internal linings, the building will serve as a showcase of our design-led innovation.

*John Arneil, APAC President at James Hardie*

Delivered by local expertise

The project is being delivered by FDC Construction & Fitout QLD, who was selected through a competitive tender process. Simon Hawkins, General Manager of FDC QLD, also addressed the audience at the event:

“FDC is grateful for the opportunity to deliver this significant project for James Hardie Australia. Both companies share strong synergies, with FDC being Australian-owned and dedicated to South East Queensland. With over 35 years of national experience and a strong commitment to local trades in the region, our dedication to people aligns perfectly with the ethos of the People's Centre. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with the James Hardie team to bring this vision to life.”

Simon_Hawkins_General_Manager_FDC_Construction&Fitout.jpg — *Simon Hawkins, General Manager, FDC Construction & Fitout*

Building for the future

The new People Centre will be constructed on the site of former administration and amenities buildings, with demolition already underway. Construction is expected to take approximately 12 months.

The project reflects the collaborative efforts of teams across James Hardie – including Manufacturing and Sales – who have worked together to bring the vision for the Carole Park People Centre to life.

Once complete, the facility will not only enhance the experience of employees on site – it will also stand as a physical expression of our purpose: Building a Better Future For All™.

Architecture & Design Team

James Hardie Australia

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