Northrop has played a key role as an independent project verifier on several major Transport for NSW infrastructure projects.

In this article, Northrop’s Martin Lee shares his insights into the vital role project verification plays in ensuring quality, safety, and accountability across complex transport programs, and reflects on the importance of collaboration between engineers, contractors, and government in achieving successful outcomes for the community.

On any project, authority approvals can make or break timelines. If not managed well, they can cause significant delays, add cost, and stall delivery.

In New South Wales, Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) is the leading authority responsible for the design, construction and maintenance of the state’s extensive road network. To ensure developers meet their requirements for quality and safety, TfNSW have put in place detailed protocols, specifications and systems.

Navigating the approval process with TfNSW can be a complex task. As Martin Lee, Senior Civil Engineer at Northrop, explains: “Securing TfNSW approval requires collaboration with a range of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), including pavement engineers, maintenance engineers, geotechnical specialists, traffic control signal engineers, and bridge engineers and more. Each element of the design is carefully assessed before sign-off is given. Building trusted relationships and understanding the priorities of each stakeholder is key to moving the process forward efficiently.”

At Northrop, we draw on our extensive experience and strong industry connections to streamline this process – ensuring our project meets all technical requirements while staying on track for timely approvals.

What is a TfNSW Project Verifier?

When a developer is constructing a new TfNSW road, upgrading an existing one, or if private works could affect TfNSW assets, they must engage directly with TfNSW. This is done through a Works Authorisation Deed (WAD). The WAD brings together the project requirements, provides a description of the works relevant to TfNSW, and sets out the contractual obligations for the project.

As part of a Major WAD, an Independent Project Verifier (PV) is usually appointed. The Project Verifier is engaged by the developer but acts on behalf of TfNSW. Their role is to ensure that both the design and the construction are in accordance with TfNSW’s stringent requirements for quality and safety.

“The Project Verifier acts as a liaison between the developer and TfNSW,” says Martin Lee, Senior Civil Engineer at Northrop. “Their role is to confirm that the design and physical works are in accordance with TfNSW requirements. Generally, projects are broken up into a design verification stage and a construction verification stage.”

Key Responsibilities of a TfNSW Project Verifier

Design Verification

• Reviews all design documents relevant to TfNSW at:
  • Concept design (15%)
  • Detailed design (85%)
  • Approved-For-Construction documentation (100%)
• Issues a Design Document Certificate once satisfied that works comply with TfNSW standard drawings, specifications and WAD requirements.

Construction Verification

• Reviews and certifies the Contractor’s Project Plans (such as Construction Traffic Management Plans, Construction Management Plans and associated documents).
• Attends Safety in Design workshops, identifying key project risks.
• Reviews and certifies the Contractor’s Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs) and construction material specifications.
• Provides regular construction supervision, certifying that the works are in accordance with the approved project documents.
• Review and verify the Contractors completion package and provide the Completion Certificate confirming the works comply with the approved design and WAD requirements.
• Post Dilapidation Period auditing for to provide Final Completion Certificate.

Choosing the right TfNSW Project Verifier

“The right Project Verifier understands TfNSW requirements inside and out. They can steer discussions to the relevant aspects, speeding up the process,” says Martin Lee. “The most important aspect is that TfNSW has confidence in the project team — and a Project Verifier who knows how the process works can add significant value.”

When assessing your ideal Project Verifier, consider the following:

Collaborative Approach

What sets us apart from the other Project Verifiers is our collaborative approach. We see ourselves as project partners rather than another authority to get past.  Projects of this nature are complex, and you need a Project Verifier with a versatile approach to enable agile solutions to be considered. At Northrop, we have a proactive and joint approach, and pride ourselves on our ability to bring ideas and solutions to the table.

Proven Track Record

Northrop has successfully carried out project verifications on a number of TfNSW projects including the extensions at 161 Sussex Street in Sydney (over the Western Distributor), The W Hotel / IMAX in Darling Harbour (between the TfNSW viaducts), and several major road projects across New South Wales. Our team is highly experienced in navigating TfNSW requirements.

Clarity on the Works Authorisation Deed (WAD)

The Works Authorisation Deed (WAD) can be a complex document. A good Project Verifier provides clarity on expectations on deliverables, helping all parties understand the requirements. This simplifies the approval process and gives the developer confidence in meeting the obligations set out in the WAD.

Design and Delivery Capability

Beyond verification, Northrop has also designed and delivered multiple TfNSW roads. This dual experience allows us to view projects holistically, giving developers, project managers and TfNSW confidence in our ability to deliver.

Registered and Approved

The Technical Services Registration Scheme (TSRS), introduced by TfNSW on 1 October 2019, lists approved technical services suppliers — including Northrop. Selecting a Project Verifier from the register ensures you’re working with an organisation recognised by TfNSW.

Dedicated Team Support

An effective Project Verifier doesn’t work in isolation and is backed by a dedicated team of construction engineers who can respond quickly, carry out inspections, and provide a strong site presence to keep construction moving.

With extensive experience as a TfNSW Project Verifier, Northrop helps developers and project managers navigate approvals, cut through complexity, and keep road and infrastructure projects on track. For more information, contact Martin Lee at Martin.Lee@northrop.com.au or 02 9241 4188.