ABSTRACT
Basement construction techniques and design methods in the Melbourne area have developed in ways reflecting the nature of the subsurface conditions and the capabilities of the designers and constructors while being based on conventional approaches. One substantial basement at least has been constructed in the Quaternary soils. Generally a soil mechanics approach has formed the basis for design in the soil-like materials of the Quaternary and Tertiary deposits around Melbourne. Lateral deflections of the perimeter wall at the Victorian Arts Centre were monitored using soil inclinometers installed outside the perimeter prior to construction. Of greater interest, in view of the Quaternary and Tertiary soils encountered around Melbourne, is the pressure distribution for stiff fissured clays. The Elizabeth Street Formation, which comprises mixed soils infilling the old Elizabeth Street Creek route in Central Melbourne, has been a cause of concern as an aquifer.
