The Business of Architecture*

As we mark five years since the launch of the first ACA Pulse Check survey, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on its origins, impact, and why we are conducting it again in 2025. Angelina Pillai highlights the value of the Pulse Check survey series and the ACA’s commitment to research.

Has your practice taken the ACA Pulse Check survey yet? If not, please do! We have extended the deadline to this Thursday 17 April to give you a little more time. The survey takes just 20 minutes to fill out and the contribution is invaluable.

On 26 March 2025, the ACA Vic/Tas Branch’s Business of Small Practice (BoSP) forum held their second event in Melbourne at the Metz Tile Gallery in Collingwood. The event focused on ‘Business Structure and Planning’ and brought together architects and practice leaders to explore strategies for building sustainable, purpose-driven practices.

In a rapidly evolving professional landscape, industry associations play a vital role in supporting their members with practical guidance while advocating for their interests at a broader societal and governmental level. To do both effectively, associations must rely on credible, well-directed research that informs decision making and advocacy, writes John Held.

Negotiating contracts can feel as solitary and gruelling as running a marathon. This practical webinar is a chance to check your processes, sharpen your skills and evaluate tools and systems that can lighten the load. Join the ACA and Wendy Poulton on 28 May for this timely session on managing client-drafted contracts, from receipt to review, departures table to negotiation.

The ACA has joined forces with the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors (AIBS) to support critical reforms that will transform accountability in Victoria’s building industry. Key provisions in the legislation include rectification orders up to 10 years after occupancy, a first resort domestic building warranty, and a developer bond scheme.

On 11 March 2025, ACA NSW/ACT President Ivana Simkovic and Committee Member Steve Pearse attended a special presentation night for 200 enthusiastic newly registered architects at Parliament House, catching up with key government and industry figures.

Join the ACA and marketing specialist Alicia Brown as she explores what truly constitutes an effective marketing strategy for architecture practices. Alicia will highlight why marketing is no longer a nice-to-have add-on but a critical business function, and share insights into her holistic and integrated marketing approach. Book now!

Legislative changes in 2024 has re-complicated this area of law, with businesses facing real risks in relation to managing the use of independent contractors, particularly if their documentation is inadequate. The ACA’s IR advisor, Tom Earls from Fair Work Lawyers, has written a comprehensive explainer. Log in to read more about independent contractors and what employers need to know.

ACA WA continues its tradition of awarding the Registration Prize, granting $1,000 to two professionals who excel in the Architectural Practice Exam. This year's recipients, Stephanie Hanlon and Irene Chan, were honoured at a recent ceremony where ACA WA Committee Member Kahla Murphy and Rondo's Kaylee Hyland presented the certificates.

Join the ACA NSW/ACT on Tuesday 29 April for exclusive insights on the latest NSW building regulation updates. Sharon Levy will provide you with critical knowledge to navigate the evolving construction landscape to increase your understanding and ensure you mitigate risks related to building compliance and liability.

On Thursday 13 February 2025, the ACA SA held a round table discussion on the critical and current topic of our national housing shortage. Special guests were invited to provide a 10-minute presentation each prior to a facilitated discussion of key themes, opportunities and challenges.

Sascha Byrne plays a vital role at the ACA, wearing many hats. One of the most important is her role as Wellbeing Program Manager. In this interview, she shares insights into her work with the ACA EAP program and the AMWF initiative, highlighting the fulfilment she finds in supporting practices and their staff.

It’s critical that all architectural businesses understand their obligations under the Architects Award. The update of the Architects Award and other Awards relevant to architectural practice incorporate all changes up to and including 1 January 2025. Download today!

The ACA Salary Calculator provides practices with a clear methodology for determining appropriate award-compliant salaries. The calculator assists members to ensure they are operating legally and fairly, and helps practices to develop properly informed plans for their business. The Salary Calculator uses the current 2024–2025 award rates. Access today!

From 1 January 2025, intentional underpayment of wages or entitlements is a criminal offence, with potential sanctions including jail time and significant financial penalties. The ACA’s legal advisor, Tom Earls from Fair Work Lawyers, has written a summary of everything employers need to know.