ACA Pulse Check 2026 – Victorian Insights
Victoria is the largest contributor to the 2026 Pulse Check, with 85 respondents representing 31% of the national cohort. The results point to some of the most challenging conditions nationally. Fee compression, planning system delays, workload volatility and a sharp contraction in the Class 2 apartment market are consistent with national trends, but appear particularly acute here.
Pipeline uncertainty
The Victorian market is characterised by a weakening pipeline, declining new enquiries, and stalled projects despite securing approvals. For some practices, a reduced workload has led to redundancies.
“The least busy we have been in a decade.”
“Plenty of projects stalled, lots of hard-won planning approvals not progressing.”
“All redundancies were Victorian-based.”
Fee pressure and intensifying competition
Fee compression is a dominant theme. Practices report losing projects by significant margins as undercutting becomes more common – a dynamic that is eroding the viability of competitive tendering for many firms.
“Lack of consistent workload, fee decline, undermining of industry offer, Victorian Government lacks work – races to the bottom in fees. Projects we won 12 months ago, we price now and lose by 30–40%.”
Planning system friction
The planning system is a consistent source of frustration. Approval delays are disrupting project timelines and compounding pipeline uncertainty, with regional Victoria particularly affected.
“Approval times for DAs is very long, causing delays in progressing projects.”
“Victoria’s planning permit system in regional Victoria – especially ill-equipped heritage advisors.”
Emerging opportunity
Despite the difficult conditions, some respondents identified pockets of activity. Engineered timber, prefabricated construction, childcare and kindergarten facilities are noted as sectors where work continues to progress.
“Engineered timber and prefab buildings; childcare and kindergarten sector; multi-res (probably not in Victoria).”
ARBV status
Of particular concern is the proposed abolition of the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV), one of the most significant regulatory threats to the profession in decades. While not explicitly named in survey responses, the sentiment is evident. The ACA is actively advocating against the ARBV abolition and urges Victorian members to contact their local MPs.
“Advocacy regarding governance and regulation of architects – e.g. Victoria’s proposed changes – is very welcome and very important.”