Blue Circle was once one of Australia’s most recognised cement brands, trusted by builders and homeowners alike for its quality and reliability. Today, while the Blue Circle name has been retired, its legacy lives on through Boral’s cement products. This article explores the history of Blue Circle, its acquisition by Boral, and how its products continue to serve the construction industry.

What Was Blue Circle?

Blue Circle originated as a British cement company in the early 1900s and became a global name in cement manufacturing. In Australia, Blue Circle Southern Cement established a strong presence, supplying cement for residential, commercial and infrastructure projects. The brand was synonymous with durability and performance, making it a staple in the building industry for decades.

The Acquisition by Boral

In 1987, Boral acquired Blue Circle Southern Cement, a joint venture between BHP and Blue Circle Industries. This strategic move strengthened Boral’s position as a leading supplier of cement and construction materials in Australia. For many years after the acquisition, Boral continued to market packaged cement products under the Blue Circle® name, leveraging its strong reputation.

Products Under the Blue Circle Brand

Blue Circle® packaged cement products were widely used across Australia and included:

• General Purpose Cement (GP Cement) – Ideal for concrete, mortar and render.
• Builders Cement (Type GB) – A versatile blend for masonry and general construction.
• Off-White Cement – Preferred for architectural finishes and decorative concrete.
• Quick-Set Concrete – For fast-setting applications.
• Mortar, Render, Screed and Grout mixes – Supporting a range of building needs.

These products remain part of Boral’s portfolio today, ensuring the same quality and compliance with Australian Standards (AS 3972).

Why the Brand Was Retired

Over time, Boral consolidated its branding to create a unified identity across all products. While the Blue Circle name is no longer featured on packaging, the formulations and quality standards remain unchanged. Customers can continue to rely on Boral cement products for strength, durability and performance.

Legacy and Impact

Blue Circle played a significant role in shaping Australia’s construction landscape. Its cement was used in countless homes, commercial buildings and infrastructure projects. The Berrima Cement Works in NSW, originally a Blue Circle site, remains a cornerstone of Boral’s cement operations, supplying a large portion of NSW and ACT’s cement needs. 

In March 2025, Boral secured a $24.5 million federal grant to upgrade the Berrima Cement Works with a specialist grinding circuit. This will increase alternative raw materials (ARMs) usage from 9% to 23%, reducing CO₂ emissions by ~100,000 tonnes annually, with full operation expected by 2028 — just in time for the site’s centenary.

Current Boral Cement Solutions

Looking for the same trusted performance? Explore Boral’s current range of packaged cement products including:

• General Purpose Cement
• Builders Cement
• Off-White Cement
• Quick-Set Concrete

For technical datasheets or expert advice, contact Boral.