Case Study
NEXTDC D1 & M2 Expansion
Delivering Darwin's first Tier III data center and managing complex live-site expansions at NEXTDC's flagship Melbourne M2 facility.
Project Overview
NEXTDC D1 (Darwin) is a new 7 MW data center—the first Tier III facility in the Northern Territory—transforming the region's digital infrastructure. Construction began in 2022 with an ~$80 million investment, and the facility officially launched in mid-2024.
NEXTDC M2 Stage 5 & 6 (Melbourne) were expansion projects to increase capacity at NEXTDC's existing M2 flagship facility, adding significant IT load and white space while the data center remained fully operational.
Key Metrics
- D1 Capacity: 7 MW, 1000 racks
- D1 Investment: ~$80 million
- D1 Certification: Tier IV (Design & Construction)
- M2 Expansion: Stages 5 & 6
My Role
As Senior Project Planner with Kapitol Group, I focused on schedule coordination and interface management:
For Darwin D1:
- Developed detailed schedules accounting for wet-season weather risks
- Managed long lead times for equipment transport to NT
- Coordinated with local contractors and client teams
For M2 Expansion:
- Planned construction activities in a live data center environment
- Implemented stringent change control and outage planning
- Scheduled tie-in works during approved maintenance windows
Achievements
Both projects saw successful outcomes: D1 opened on schedule (enhancing NEXTDC's network in Australia's north), and M2's expansions were delivered with zero unplanned downtime to existing customers.
The planning rigour I brought ensured the client's objectives were met while safeguarding operational continuity.