The Challenge
Powerhouse was preparing to open Powerhouse Parramatta — the largest museum in NSW, with 18,000 square metres of exhibition and public space designed to attract two million visitors annually. The opening of Powerhouse Parramatta significantly increased the complexity of an already multi-site operation, with the scale and operational scope of the new build stretching well beyond what existing arrangements could absorb.
Our Approach
Core42 developed a space typology system — each type with defined security activities — allowing consistent security expectations across sites while accommodating site-specific conditions. We designed a governance model that preserves institutional control over security culture and decision-making while ensuring operational delivery can scale with the expanded portfolio. A visitor-centric security philosophy positioned the security function as part of the visitor experience, reflecting Powerhouse’s identity as a cultural institution.
What We Delivered
An enterprise-wide security operations strategy defining the governance model, role definitions, space typologies, resourcing schedules, and a KPI framework with measurable performance targets. This was supported by a site-specific security management plan for the new flagship site and tender-ready procurement documentation that enabled Powerhouse to go to market with clearly defined scope and evaluation criteria.
Why It Matters
This project demonstrates Core42’s ability to develop enterprise-level security operations frameworks for complex, multi-site institutions — from strategy through to procurement-ready documentation. The space typology methodology is directly transferable to transport hubs, university campuses, hospital precincts, or any mixed-use environment where diverse use types require consistent security principles with site-specific application.