25 years of partnership: Wormald and La Trobe University united in safety and impact
Highlighting the power of long-term collaboration, Wormald and La Trobe University are celebrating 25 years of partnership dedicated to protecting lives, property, and purpose. Since the 1990s, the two organisations have worked together to deliver vital fire safety infrastructure across La Trobe’s campuses while supporting shared values of inclusion, community engagement, and social impact.
That commitment goes beyond systems and services. In 2022, Wormald launched the Inclusive Scholarship to support students overcoming adversity. Building on its success, a second scholarship for an Indigenous student will be introduced this year – part of Wormald’s Reconciliation Action Plan and a further step in the partnership’s effort to create a more equitable future.
With more than 25 years in the fire protection industry and a decade at Wormald, Major Contracts Manager Chris Cooper has played a key role in the relationship. Leading the health and education team, he ensures Wormald’s service meets La Trobe’s operational needs while reflecting the university’s principles.
“Our work with La Trobe started with fire alarm upgrades at the Bundoora campus. Today, we’re proud to be their Fire and Life Safety partner across all five Victorian campuses,” said Cooper.
Wormald now manages a complex network of over 150 fire panels and 35,000 detectors, all linked to an advanced fire graphics computer system that enables real-time monitoring. Keeping it all running requires a dedicated team that understands not just the technology but the culture of a modern university.
“La Trobe’s Infrastructure and Operations team has fostered a culture of respect and collaboration that extends to its partners. That makes a real difference in how we work together.”
This shared culture of care laid the foundation for the Inclusive Scholarship, created in partnership with La Trobe’s Make the Difference campaign to support underprivileged students in staying engaged and successful in their studies.
The inaugural recipient, Bachelor of Podiatry student Sam Istaifo has since become a familiar face to the Wormald team.
“Sam’s resilience is exactly what the scholarship is about. He checks in regularly and keeps us updated – his journey has been meaningful for all of us,” added Cooper.
Wormald Team with La Trobe University, Deputy Director Facilities, John Kiff
In addition to infrastructure and scholarships, Wormald supports La Trobe with ongoing education and training to help the university stay up to date with industry standards. Most recently, Wormald delivered an on-campus presentation outlining the proposed changes to the new edition of AS1851, which is currently being redeveloped. This was part of a broader effort to keep La Trobe informed on compliance requirements.
Wormald’s involvement with La Trobe has also included the successful delivery of several major infrastructure projects:
- 2000–2010: Replaced multiple outdated fire systems with a unified Vigilant network across all campuses.
- 2016: Designed and installed a fire graphics system, providing real-time visibility and control.
- 2023: Assumed management of La Trobe’s Essential Safety Measures compliance, including coordinating annual audits and transparent reporting.
Throughout the decades, the partnership has focused on delivering value beyond technical services, evolving from cutting-edge fire systems to supporting future leaders and continuing to grow with purpose.
To learn more about Wormald’s ongoing mission, values, and vision, visit: Wormald About Us – Values Mission Statement
