DCOH has been recognised as a Great Place To Work® for the second consecutive year, reaffirming the strength of its workplace culture through independent employee feedback.
“Achieving Great Place To Work® Certification for a second consecutive year is something we’re incredibly proud of because it comes directly from the feedback of our people” said Managing Director and CEO Shane Dignan.
Chief People Officer, Emily Nyamdorj, said the recognition was particularly meaningful because it reflected the experiences and perspectives of our employees. “The results show strong pride in the work we do and the relationships we have across our teams. Just as importantly, the feedback also helps shape where we focus next as we continue Building Better for our people and our business.”
Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture. Its Trust Index™ survey measures employees’ experience across five key areas: credibility, respect, fairness, pride and camaraderie, providing insight into the relationships between employees and their leaders, their work and their teams.
This year, 87% of respondents said that, taking everything into account, DCOH is a great place to work, supporting the company’s recertification.
For almost 40 years, DCOH has invested in Northern Australia through development, construction, operations, hospitality and long-term asset ownership. With headquarters in Darwin, DCOH has gone from strength to strength with the recent expansion into Melbourne’s construction industry. As well as delivering award-winning infrastructure projects across Defence, civic and health sectors, the family-owned business proudly invests in large-scale residential communities, commercial buildings and prime hospitality assets.
Building better, now across the Northern Territory and Victoria.
Construction is well underway on 352 new purpose-built student accommodation beds in the heart of Darwin’s CBD, with DCOH’s project management team recently touring Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Madeleine King MP and Federal member for Solomon, Luke Gosling OAM MP through the construction site.
DCOH was appointed to build the 14-storey, 352-bed facility for Campus Living Villages (CLV) to accommodate Charles Darwin University (CDU) students, providing more housing options for students close to where they study.
The development will include a mix of studio and six-bedroom apartments, along with study areas, communal facilities and shared spaces designed to foster connection and support student life.
Mr Gosling said education was a big part of Darwin’s future.
‘We want more students choosing to study and build their lives here. Students from across the Territory, Australia and around the world bring so much to our city, our community and our economy,’ said Mr Gosling. ‘The project is part of an around $70 million Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) loan to CLV to deliver more than 400 additional purpose-built student accommodation beds across CDU’s Darwin campuses.’
From left, DCOH Development Manager Jay Stone; Federal Member for Solomon Luke Gosling OAM MP; Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Madeleine King MP; and DCOH Senior Project Manager Frank Bagala at the site of the new student accommodation.
Senior Project Manager Frank Bagala said DCOH was proud to bring the much-needed student accommodation project to life in collaboration with the stakeholders.
“DCOH has been building and investing in the Territory for almost 40 years, and it’s great to see NAIF’s support in continuing to play a key role in funding and developing Northern Australia.”
Construction of the new CBD student accommodation is scheduled for completion in late 2028.
Building better, now across the Northern Territory and Victoria.
International publication, APAC Outlook Magazine, recently shone a spotlight on Textum, featuring an interview with Textum General Manager, Darren Mullan in their August 2026 edition.
There were celebrations all round at the Hospitality NT Gold Plate Awards Night on August 24, with Five Spice at Courtyard by Marriott Darwin taking home two awards – Best New Establishment and Best Dessert, The Cinema Collective chef Jake Horyna scoring top honours as the Chef of the Year, and the Novotel Darwin chef Quang Ngo making finals in Chef of the Year.
Thyme Hospitality manager Alex Murray and DCOH Managing Director and CEO Shane Dignan were both delighted to see Five Spice recognised with not one, but two Gold Plate Awards at the hospitality night of nights. Mr Dignan thanked everyone who had dined at and supported Five Spice since its opening, and congratulated the talented kitchen and restaurant teams. ‘Since opening their doors, Five Spice has been about creating a fresh dining experience in the heart of Darwin, bringing together thoughtful flavours, local inspiration and a passionate team.’
He also congratulated Quang and Jake, saying the accolades reflected their creativity, high standards and passion for the industry.
Twenty chefs showcased their skills through a series of challenges in the quest for the coveted Gold Plate Chef of the Year. Starting with a written exam and blind tasting contest, the contestants were then tasked with making a main course and dessert from a mystery box of ingredients in a live cook-off. The winners were announced at Hospitality NT’s Gold Plate Awards gala dinner on August 24 in Darwin.
DCOH managing director and CEO, Shane Dignan, has welcomed Minister for Housing, Local Government and Community Development Steve Edgington’s update about his intention to incorporate Northcrest into the City of Darwin’s local government area, saying residents deserved to have a council and all the services that entailed.
‘Being able to vote in local government elections and having clearer access to zoned facilities like the tip and libraries is an important part of helping our residents feel settled in their community.’
Mr Dignan said collaboration was an essential part of building better amenities for the community and this step reflected extensive advocacy from not only DCOH and the Northcrest community, but passionate stakeholders including local member for Fong Lim, Dr Tanzil Rahman.
Mr Dignan thanked residents for their patience and said DCOH looked forward to negotiating with DLPE and City of Darwin to facilitate the incorporation.
‘This will provide a solid foundation for Northcrest’s continued growth,’ said Mr Dignan.
And growing it is, with over 500 lots already developed at Northcrest, with another 120 lots under development and over 60 houses currently under construction. Northcrest Sales Manager, Kristy Millar, echoed Mr Dignan’s sentiments, and said the CLP’s master-planned community with major project status had gone from strength to strength.
Mr Dignan said working together was the key for a bright future. ‘We have over 80 keen land buyers on the waiting list. We also have commercial interest from McDonalds, Hungry Jacks, On The Run and the Northern Land Council. Coming soon, there’ll be a supermarket, childcare centre and tavern.’
For more information on the fastest growing subdivision in Darwin, conveniently located halfway between Darwin and Palmerston, visit northcrest.au or call into the sales office on Reuben Avenue, Berrimah.
Building better, now across the Northern Territory and Victoria.
Pitch Black 2026. Like most of Darwin, the team at DCOH had their eyes on sky the last month, watching the world’s fastest and stealthiest aircraft zip past at impressive speeds. It’s not just* the planes and fighter jets that get us excited in this biennial military exercise; it’s the partnerships, strategies and teamwork that occur behind the scenes as 21 countries, over 100 aircraft and 2500 personnel practice tactical manoeuvres like mid-air refuelling, formation flying and combat training.
Precision. Planning. Teamwork. Safety. These four tenets are as important in defence as they are in development and construction. DCOH takes great pride in being a trusted partner for defence, consistently delivering infrastructure upgrades on live military bases across the Northern Territory.
*There’s no denying it, we also get excited about the unique Territory twist that crocs add to a corporate function
📸 DCOH’s Shane Dignan and Melissa Collins attended the Pitch Black dinner at Parliament House, where the Territory’s unique hospitality (and wildlife) was on show for the many partner nations involved in this biennial military exercise.
Building better, now across the Northern Territory and Victoria.
A fresh new direction awaits diners at Courtyard by Marriott, with the new-look Five Spice Restaurant and a sophisticated all-day menu launched as part of the hotel’s $10-million-dollar renovation.
Conveniently nestled in the heart of Darwin’s CBD, and now with a new bar, banquet and breakfast buffet area, the award-winning Five Spice is the latest jewel in the crown of the hotel’s extensive multi-stage renovations.
Thyme Hospitality manager, Alex Murray, said restaurant team members had been blown away by the positive feedback from Darwin locals and hotel guests alike. ‘As well as providing seamless entertainment and accommodation experiences for our valued guests, we wanted to create a destination restaurant that appeals to Top End residents seeking an upmarket dining experience at an affordable price tag. And based on the fantastic response so far, and last month’s highly successful launch, our tropical redesign, all-day menu and broad dining options are ticking all the right boxes,’ Alex said. ‘Diners are loving this authentic new direction, and we can’t wait to share the flavours and feel of Five Spice with a broader audience.’
It’s a sentiment that’s shared by executive chef, Kevin Chen. Kevin helped develop the modern Australian and Asian-inspired menu, and was delighted to unveil the ultra-local twist with Davidson Plum Soy Sauce, Rosella syrup and Quandong Petit Fours. ‘We’ve harnessed the Territory’s unique flavours to produce a menu that will delight and surprise diners, combining high-quality food with immaculate service in a stunning new restaurant.’
With first-phase renovations completed last dry season, Courtyard by Marriott is the first and only Marriott branded hotel in the Northern Territory, reaching out to 271-million Marriott-Bonvoy members across the world.
Courtyard by Marriott is owned by Darwin-based company DCOH, with CEO and managing director, Shane Dignan, confirming that the Marriott-Bonvoy loyalty rewards program was putting the Territory firmly on the map. ‘It’s also complementing the Top End’s #14 ranking on the New York Times ‘52 Places to Go in 2026’ Travel Destinations List. Marriott hotels are renowned for their pursuit of excellence and here in Darwin, we’re proud to extend that experience to all of our customers, regardless of whether they’re local, domestic or international.’
2026 DCOH Guineas Day – July 4 2026 marked DCOH’s third year as proud race day sponsors, with a sea of DCOH red, white and blue both on and off the track as the event that launched the iconic Darwin Cup Carnival. It’s not just the horses, the fashion, or the thrill of standing trackside in perfect Dry Season conditions; the team at DCOH loves the way racing brings people together in the Territory, and the amazing opportunities it creates for tourism, jobs and the local economy.
Building better, now across the Northern Territory and Victoria.
DCOH is delighted to lead the construction of a new 352-bed student accommodationfacility in Darwin’s CBD, in a project developed and managed by Campus Living Villages(CLV) at CDU’s Danala City Campus.
DCOH Managing Director and CEO Shane Dignan said the appointment reflectedDCOH’s capabilities, collaboration, and early contractor engagement process.
“We’ve been building and investing in the Territory for almost 40 years, and we werevery proud to deliver the award-winning Danala City Campus project on time and onbudget in 2024. Our team is excited to continue contributing to the precinct’s evolutionand helping shape this new chapter at CDU.“
MEDIA RELEASE 14 July 2026
Campus Living Villages has commenced construction on critical new student accommodation within Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) at the Danala campus in Darwin CBD, delivering 352 new purpose-built beds, new amenity and significantly boosting housing options in Darwin for students.
The project, developed and managed by Campus Living Villages (CLV), will deliver contemporary accommodation featuring a mix of high-demand studio and six-bedroom apartments. Scheduled for completion in late 2028, the development will include amenities that support student learning, health and wellbeing, including communal kitchens, study areas and shared spaces that foster connection.
CLV currently manages the CDU Village Casuarina Campus, which is undergoing major capital upgrade to add new student rooms and materially refurbish the existing village which is well progressed. On completion of the Darwin CBD development in 2028, CLV will manage 710 student beds across both campuses.
Creating a supportive and engaging student experience is an essential pillar for success at Charles Darwin University according to Professor Fiona Coulson, Interim Vice-Chancellor. “By enhancing our amenities through connected communities, including safe living environments, we provide more opportunities for students to join us in Darwin while strengthening accommodation options that benefit both our students and the wider Northern Territory community. We are committed to creating a bright future for the diverse range of students who choose to study with us, and this new accommodation will further strengthen our offering.”
Experienced on-campus PBSA operators Campus Living Villages have worked closely with Charles Darwin University since assuming operations of CDU Village Casuarina Campus in December 2024, and share a desire to provide purpose-built options for students studying at CDU.
“This development represents a significant investment in Darwin and reinforces our commitment to supporting students through high-quality, purpose-built accommodation. Working in partnership with CDU, we will deliver a vibrant, inclusive community that supports student success while helping to ease pressure on the private rental market in the Northern Territory.” said John Schroder, Group Managing Director and CEO of Campus Living Villages.
The project is backed by funding from the Australian Government’s Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF). “This project will increase the supply of purpose-built student accommodation in Darwin and support Charles Darwin University’s continued growth. By improving access to student housing, the development will help attract and retain students, strengthen workforce capability and contribute to the long-term economic development of the Northern Territory. NAIF is pleased to support infrastructure that delivers lasting benefits for Northern Australia.” said NAIF CEO Neil MacDonald.
Darwin-based development and construction company DCOH will lead the construction on behalf of CLV, bringing its in-depth knowledge and experience of building in the Northern Territory to this project.
“We’ve been building and investing in the Territory for almost 40 years, and we were very proud to deliver the award-winning Danala City Campus project on time and on budget in 2024” said DCOH Managing Director and CEO Shane Dignan.
“Our team is excited to continue contributing to the precinct’s evolution and helping shape this new chapter at CDU.”
The Darwin CBD development represents CLV’s second major new-build project in recent years, following the forthcoming opening of a new accommodation and amenities tower, and the significant upgrade of existing accommodation and amenity, at Griffith University’s Southport campus.
ENDS
Contact
Jane Gordon, Marketing & Communications Manager, Campus Living Villages
NAIDOC Week 5-12 July | Recognising 50 Years of Deadly
“Expressing my culture through my company means a lot to me. As a proud Malak Malak woman from Daly river, I get a sense of belonging from knowing my workmates at DCOH are onboard with celebrating NAIDOC Week and acknowledging my Indigenous culture. It’s a really exciting time of the year. As well as the upper management, staff onsite really get around it, I love having the opportunity to represent DCOH at so many events” – Daisy Tulari, DCOH’s Engagement Support Officer
When it comes to engaging where it matters most, there’s no such thing as a regular day for Darwin’s Daisy Tulari, who says NAIDOC Week is one of her favourite celebrations. From modelling First Nations fashion for Bamalang Mob Productions, attending the Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network breakfast with her grandmother and marching alongside colleagues in the 2026 NAIDOC Week Walk, Daisy’s 2026 commitments were all part of her role mentoring and supporting the Indigenous workforce.
DCOH staff marching at NAIDOC Week 2026
Building better, now across the Northern Territory and Victoria.
2026 DCOH Guineas Day – July 4 
2026 marked DCOH’s third year as proud race day sponsors, with a sea of DCOH red, white and blue both on and off the track as the event that launched the iconic Darwin Cup Carnival. It’s not just the horses, the fashion, or the thrill of standing trackside in perfect Dry Season conditions; the team at DCOH loves the way racing brings people together in the Territory, and the amazing opportunities it creates for tourism, jobs and the local economy.
5-12 July | Recognising 50 Years of Deadly
