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ARBV PII changes – Next steps

The Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV) has updated its position on professional indemnity insurance (PII), and while the changes are measured, the implication is clear. Continuous, actively managed insurance cover is key to compliance. See our summary below, with information on next steps for members.

See the ARBV March 2026 update – “Further update on PII proof of coverage” together with their December 2025 update “Update on PII Proof of Coverage”.

Under the revised approach:

  • Architects must maintain continuous 12-month cover
  • A declaration is required where policy periods don’t align with the registration year
  • Policies must not expire between July and September

This is a practical response to industry feedback, and highlights that gaps, misalignment and late renewals now carry real regulatory risk.

Why this matters now

For many practices, PII has become one of the most unpredictable parts of running a business, subject to shifting premiums, changing underwriting, and difficult renewal cycles. The ARBV’s update reinforces that reality in practical terms.

You now need to be confident that your insurance:

  • Aligns with registration requirements over time
  • Won’t inadvertently lapse
  • Can be evidenced clearly if required
  • Doesn’t expose you to peak pricing or constrained market windows

For ACA members, especially smaller and mid-sized practices, managing this alone can be both time-consuming and uncertain.

A more stable pathway for members

In response to exactly these challenges, the ACA has worked with Coverforce Complete to establish a more structured insurance pathway for members. The ACA Combined Insurance initiative has been designed to bring greater clarity and consistency to how practices approach PII.

It offers:

  • More predictable pricing aligned to defined risk settings
  • Coordinated cover structures (PI + GL) to reduce fragmentation
  • Greater alignment with practice profiles, including revenue bands
  • Simplified renewal and continuity, helping you stay ahead of compliance

This isn’t about replacing the market. It’s about choice – giving ACA members a more stable and transparent option.

Don’t leave this to renewal week

One of the clearest risks under the new ARBV settings is timing. The ARBV has confirmed that they will continue to accept proof of coverage for policies that expire in the July–September window, but they may contact registrants to discuss their cycle of insurance.  The ARBV will review compliance with proof of insurance requirements at the end of the 2027 registration year. If your policy is due to expire mid-year, or within the July–September window, you may wish to actively adjust your arrangements for ease of compliance.

So, if your renewal is approaching, or if these changes have prompted a rethink, it’s worth exploring sooner rather than later.

  • Review your current policy dates
  • Check alignment with registration requirements
  • Understand your exposure to timing and pricing pressure
  • Consider whether your current model is giving you enough certainty

Make an informed move

The ACA’s role is not to prescribe a single solution, but to ensure members have access to options that reflect how architectural practices operate.

To find out more, head to: ACA Combined Insurance initiative