Future-proofing South West Sydney’s water infrastructure

The West Camden Water Resource Recovery Facility major upgrade unlocks the potential to develop up to 70,000 new homes in the region while providing high-quality recycled water for local agricultural and recreational use.

The project involved the end-to-end delivery of new inlet works, four new membrane bioreactor treatment systems, biosolids handling upgrades, and electrical and civil works. One of the standout achievements was the installation of the largest membrane bioreactors currently operating in the southern hemisphere, marking a major advancement in treatment capacity and showcasing industry-leading innovation.

Rather than solely adding capacity to the existing infrastructure, the team developed an alternative design that allows the full decommissioning of the aging and increasingly unreliable plant. This approach future-proofs and simplifies operations while enhancing the overall quality of treated effluent. With the new facility now in operation, the process of decommissioning the legacy infrastructure has commenced.

The project also integrated leading digital tools to enhance coordination and decision-making. The use of a centralised digital platform for 3D modelling and 2D drafting provided a single source of truth, ensuring full visibility and collaboration across stakeholders. Virtual reality sessions allowed operators to engage with the design before construction. Regular model reviews and early vendor involvement reduced rework and improved constructability while aligning with best-practice digital engineering.

BMD Constructions General Manager NSW/ACT John Vida described the successful delivery of this major infrastructure upgrade within a live water resource recovery facility as a significant achievement for the team.

“This project exemplifies BMD’s ability to operate in highly complex and operational brownfield environments, where careful planning, risk management and strong stakeholder engagement are essential,” Mr Vida said.

“Now upgraded, the facility supports the continued growth of South West Sydney and provides the region with high-quality recycled water.

“Working side by side with Downer and Sydney Water, this outcome shows what’s possible when teams are aligned in technical expertise and have a shared commitment to excellence and collaboration.

The newly commissioned facility can treat up to 1,500 litres per second of influent to meet strict water quality targets. These targets are helping to protect the Nepean River by reducing nutrient loads and supporting the long-term health of the local ecosystem.

In a sector as complex and multifaceted as water and wastewater, BMD combines a uniquely collaborative approach with technical excellence to deliver critical infrastructure that supports growing communities and safeguards the environment.