Our story
For more than 40 years, our story
has been one of strong partnerships, steady growth, and hands-on expertise.
Where it all began . . .
Qanstruct was founded by Wally Percy and Bob Neilson.
The name blends “quantity surveying” and “construction” and is deliberately spelled without the ‘u’ to sit alongside Qantas in the phonebook. Genius!
1986
The business began from a car boot and a small home office, before taking on two early projects in its very first year.
1990
As Australia slid into recession, Qanstruct faced an uncertain future. Then came a breakthrough: winning a design and construction contract for Holeproof’s new Nunawading facility.
Secured against the odds, the project kept the business moving forward when it mattered most.
Turnover $15M
1993
A key partnership with Containers Packaging began, starting with a warehouse facility build in Wendouree near Ballarat, Victoria.
What began as a single project soon grew into a multi-state program, spanning Victoria, Canberra and Queensland.
1995
Qanstruct entered a new phase of growth with its largest project to date — the 42,500m² Kmart Distribution Centre in Melbourne.
The early adoption of ESFR sprinkler systems also began reshaping approaches to fire management in warehouse design.
Turnover $81M
1996
A generational handover marked this year, with co-founders Wally Percy and Bob Neilson stepping aside as Managing Directors and passing the reins onto Andrew Percy and Mark Ruff.
During this period, Qanstruct transitioned from traditional hand-drawn plans to CAD, adopting new technology that fundamentally redefined the design process.
1997
The complex transformation of the former Richmond Power Station into a modern office precinct for retailer Country Road earned industry recognition for Qanstruct, winning several prestigious awards and marking a major step forward in design as a landmark project.
2000
As the new millennium began, Qanstruct refreshed its corporate identity, including a new logo, alongside continued growth in major industrial and distribution projects.
A long-standing relationship with Regal Cream Products led to the delivery of a new head office and national distribution centre for Bulla Dairy Foods. The partnership continued with several more projects over the following decade for both Regal Cream and the Bulla family.
2003
A defining moment for the company was the refurbishment of the former St Augustine’s Church in Hawthorn, Victoria.
The project transformed the heritage building into Qanstruct’s future home, blending historic character with a unique modern workplace.
2005
Qanstruct celebrated its 20th anniversary in a landmark year, surpassing $100 million in turnover for the first time.
The project portfolio continued to diversify with an award-winning head office for Franklin Printing in Sunshine, Victoria and new facilities for Simplot Australia.
Interstate growth also continued with construction of a QML Pathology facility in Queensland.
Turnover $100M
2007
Qanstruct delivered projects of unprecedented scale, led by major distribution facilities including a Coles Myer regional distribution centre in Adelaide and two chilled distribution centres across New South Wales and Victoria.
Turnover $250M
2010
With team numbers growing to 75, Qanstruct delivered several technically complex projects, including the Bluetongue Brewery for Pacific Beverages — a large scale, expandable production facility requiring close integration of specialist brewing systems.
The year also saw completion of the 75,000m² Kmart distribution centre in Truganina, Victoria, one of the company’s largest undertakings to date.
2013
The company introduced its inaugural Bob Neilson Award,paying tribute to Bob’s legacy and his guiding principle, “go the extra mile.”
The award recognises team members whose outstanding dedication and commitment exemplify this spirit in their everyday work.
2015
A significant ownership transition saw Andrew Percy step away after his major contribution to the Qanstruct business, with long serving leaders Josh Horan, Damien Toppi, Clem Perin and Charlie Rico joining the ownership group.
Turnover $189M
2019
The global pandemic tested the industry, yet Qanstruct continued to operate strongly under challenging restrictions.
In unprecedented times, the team successfully delivered the largest multi-level fulfilment centre in the Southern Hemisphere, alongside another major Melbourne facility supporting advanced logistics operations.
2023
With a team of 165 people, Qanstruct strengthened its executive leadership team through the appointment of a Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, reflecting the growing scale, complexity and maturity of the business.
Turnover $530M
Today....
Our new head office in Melbourne marks the beginning of the next chapter, built on 40 years of experience with a firm focus on the future.
Explore Our Projects
Discover how we bring ideas to life through thoughtful design and execution.
