The Business of Architecture*

What’s the point? What are we trying to achieve? How do we have the greatest impact – protecting consumers, improving conditions for the profession, and supporting a sustainable, high-quality built environment? These questions shape the ACA’s advocacy agenda in Victoria and nationally. Paul Viney reflects on the importance of strong advocacy in a time of significant legislative change.

With 7-star energy efficiency taking centre stage, NCC 2022 represents the biggest change to construction requirements since the BCA was introduced to WA in 1989. Join ACA WA with HIA Assistant Director, Aaron Sice, to unpack the major changes that affect everything from bricks and beams to balconies. Don’t miss this comprehensive CPD webinar.

The Australian Construction Industry Forum (ACIF) gathered in Brisbane in late August for a lively and productive meeting, marked by collaboration, fresh insights, and a warm farewell to long-serving Executive Director James Cameron. Angelina Pillai reports on a day of robust discussion on the challenges and opportunities shaping our industry.

Architecture faces a rapidly changing future. To remain relevant, practices must evolve with intention, building adaptability into the core of how they work. Michael Lewarne highlights eight foundational systems that practices can use to build agility, resilience and future proofing.

The Victorian Parliament is currently considering the Domestic Building Contracts Amendment Bill 2025, and the ACA has made a comprehensive submission supporting its intent while proposing key improvements to better protect homeowners and support small builders.

Client insights are one of the most powerful tools for building a stronger practice, helping you refine services and deepen relationships. Sign up for the 2026 Client Choice Awards for Best Architecture Firm and gain a tailored report with invaluable client feedback. 

ACA SA is delighted to host their next practice management lunchtime roundtable on Tuesday 30 September at JPE Design Studio. The discussion will cover People and Culture, with a focus on wellbeing and creating a thriving practice. Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to meet with others in a similar role and build your professional network.

An employee has sent inappropriate emails to one of their colleagues, making them feel very uncomfortable. What is the best course of action to deal with this situation? The ACA’s HR advisor Catalina Consultants offers ACA members advice on how to tackle inappropriate workplace behaviour.

Building relationships was central to the discussion on strategies for winning work at the recent Business of Small Practice (BoSP) forum event in Melbourne – the fourth in the event series run by the ACA in Victoria. Kieran Benson opened the event and has written an excellent recap.

informed by Planned Cover is offering a 15% discount for ACA members for its upcoming webinar on navigating contract administration. Paul Trotter, LFRAIA will lead this interactive session, addressing pain points in contract administration and offering practical advice for consultants.

ACA QLD/NT's submission addresses key issues raised in the Commission's Interim Report and presents solutions-oriented recommendations to modernise Queensland's construction sector.

Join the ACA NSW/ACT Committee on Wednesday 17 September to unlock sustainable practices in architecture. Anthony Kearns will share practical strategies for building and maintaining sustainable human systems, exploring how these connect with broader sustainability goals and the opportunities and challenges they create for architects and practices.

The ACA NSW/ACT Committee was once again proud to award two Architecture students from the University of Western Sydney a cash prize for outstanding work in units related to Practice Management.

We are pleased to share the ACA’s new membership brochure, a colourful, easy-to-read booklet that outlines the many ways the ACA supports and advocates for Australian architecture practices. It highlights our role as a trusted business advisor, with benefits including practical tools, contracts and advisories, regular business-focused updates and webinars, and advocacy and research.

The ACA is pleased to welcome Monash University as our latest University affiliate, joining RMIT and the PNG University of Technology in this growing initiative that aims to help bridge the gap between education and practice.

The ACA NSW/ACT Committee has submitted feedback on the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 review, including insights on the NSW Planning Lodgement Portal, informed by member surveys. The ACA has been invited to present our findings at Parliament House in September.

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 July 2025, including new pay rates. Download today!