Hychem delivers rapid-cure waterproofing for Adelaide Convention Centre

A major rapid-cure waterproofing solution from Hychem Infrastructure ensured long-term protection for one of South Australia’s most iconic public venues.

Hychem Infrastructure has played a central role in safeguarding one of South Australia’s most important public buildings, installing a high-performance waterproofing system as part of the $397 million redevelopment of the Adelaide Convention Centre.

Working with Lendlease and the SA Department for Infrastructure and Transport, Hychem’s team engineered and delivered a sophisticated solution across a sprawling 5,750 m² podium deck. The challenge: provide a lightweight, durable and fully compliant system capable of withstanding heavy traffic — and do it under an extremely tight construction program.

A rapid-cure system built for performance

The solution combined Hychem’s Matacryl RB waterproofing system, a rapid-curing membrane known for its flexibility and long-term durability, with Velosit SC241 lightweight screed to correct falls and reduce load. The technology’s standout feature was speed: the Matacryl system enabled forklift traffic within just one hour of application, ensuring follow-on trades could move in without delay.

“On a project of this profile, every hour counts,” said Dean Barr, Infrastructure Manager – APAC. “The ability to have forklifts driving on the deck almost immediately after application was a game-changer. It meant construction could keep moving, trades weren’t held up, and the program stayed on track,” he said.

The multi-layer system not only met all engineering specifications but also delivered a seamless, robust finish designed to protect the podium deck against the elements for decades to come.

Protecting an Australian-first convention centre

The Adelaide Convention Centre is more than just a building — it is a symbol of South Australia’s ambition and a key driver of the state’s visitor economy. Opened in 1987 as Australia’s first purpose-built convention centre, the venue sits prominently on North Terrace overlooking the River Torrens.

A major redevelopment transformed the precinct. The addition of new East and West buildings created striking architectural façades and expanded capacity to host up to 3,500 delegates in plenary mode. With more than 20,000 square metres of multi-purpose space, it is one of the largest and most flexible event venues in the country, hosting everything from global conventions to concerts and exhibitions.

“This project wasn’t just about waterproofing a deck,” Dean said. “It was about protecting a venue that welcomes thousands of people each year.

“The Adelaide Convention Centre is a showcase for South Australia. Being part of its transformation was something we’re very proud of.”

Setting a benchmark for complex public project

The Convention Centre’s podium deck waterproofing demonstrates Hychem’s ability to deliver technical, rapid-cure solutions at scale — exactly the kind of innovation required on complex public infrastructure projects.

“Every project we take on has its own set of challenges,” Dean said. “But what remains constant is our commitment to delivering systems that save time, reduce risk and extend the life of critical assets. The Adelaide Convention Centre is a perfect example of that in action.”

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