Contract Administration and Management in the Construction Industry

Overview

This unit aims to develop students’ professional competence in construction contract administration by interpreting standard contract conditions, administering contractual mechanisms, assessing claims and entitlements, and resolving disputes. Students will apply statutory and professional standards to manage contractual and financial risks, support compliance, and contribute to the fair and successful delivery of construction projects.

Unit learning outcomes

Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:

1. Interpret and apply standard construction contract conditions to manage rights, obligations, and professional relationships among clients, contractors, and consultants
2. Administer contractual mechanisms, including variations, progress payments, extensions of time (EOT), and liquidated damages, in accordance with contract conditions, statutory requirements, and professional standards
3. Evaluate contractual claims and entitlements by analysing contract provisions, statutory obligations, and project circumstances to support fair, compliant, and defensible contract administration decisions
4. Analyse and resolve contractual disputes and complex contractual issues using professional judgement, negotiation techniques, and appropriate contract administration and dispute resolution strategies
5. Integrate contract administration principles to monitor project compliance, manage contractual and financial risks, and support the successful delivery of construction projects
6. Utilise digital tools and platforms for effective contract management and documentation control

Teaching methods

All applicable locations

Assessment

Content

• Contract documentation: scope, specifications, drawings, schedules
• Payment provisions and progress claims
• Variations and change management procedures
• Insurance requirements and performance bonds
• Claims management and assessment techniques
• Dispute resolution: mediation, adjudication, arbitration, litigation
• Final accounts and contract closure processes
• Ethical and professional standards in contract administration
• Digital tools for contract administration (e.g., eTendering, document control systems)