Victoria's government in Australia has shortlisted three consortiums to build the North East Link’s twin road tunnels under the PPP scheme.

Following a worldwide search, the Andrews Labor Government announced the three bidders vying for the AUD 7-9 billion (US$ 4.71 - 6.06 billion) major works contract. The three shortlisted consortia include some of the biggest construction firms in Australia and around the world:

• OneLink – comprising CPB Contractors, Samsung C&T Corporation, Egis Road Operations, UGL Engineering, Pacific Partnership, DIF Management Australia
• Spark – comprising Salini Impregilo, GS Engineering and Construction, China Construction Oceania, Broadspectrum Australia, Capella Capital, John Laing Investments, and advisors Lend Lease Engineering
• ViaNova – comprising John Holland Group, Acciona Construction, Lendlease Services, Plenary Group, Acciona Concesiones

The North East Link is Victoria’s largest ever road project. The project will connect the M80 with the Eastern Freeway linking key growth areas in the north and south-east. It includes upgrades to the Eastern Freeway, a dedicated Doncaster Busway, more than 25 kilometers of new and upgraded cycling and walking paths, and improvements to community facilities including local sports grounds.

The successful PPP developer will design the North East Link including the twin tunnels, new interchanges, freeway upgrades, and shared-use paths. They will also be responsible for building the twin tunnels under the Yarra River, and operating the entire road corridor from the Eastern Freeway to Hoddle St and the M80, once it is built.

Early works to prepare for major construction will commence following planning approvals in 2020 and will deliver a range of preparatory works including power, water, and other utility works.

The contract for the PPP is expected to be awarded near the end of 2020, with major construction to start in 2021.