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Architects Registration Changes 2024

24 July 2023

From January 2024, the Architectural Practice Examination (APE) will follow the 2021 National Standard of Competency for Architects (NSCA) – but what does this mean for practices with graduates already on the road to registration? The following summary of changes to the APE was supplied by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA).

Back in July 2021, QLD/NT Committee member Charmaine Kai prepared an update on the key developments of the new National Standard of Competency for Architects 2021 (NSCA) soon after its launch. Charmaine was the ACA representative on the Expert Reference Group (ERG), advising on the review and update of the 2021 NSCA, which identifies the skills, knowledge and capabilities required for the general practice of architecture in Australia.

The 2021 NSCA “promotes a greater focus on more meaningful engagement with First Nations peoples and caring for Country, and supports key reform in sustainability and the role of the built environment in mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change.” The ACA continues to share information and resources on the new competencies, particularly relevant webinars and other events that help members meet their CPD obligations.

But for those with graduates working towards registration from within their practices, how does the new NSCA affect registration for graduates in 2024 and beyond? The following summary of changes to the Architectural Practice Examination (APE) was supplied by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA). For additional queries or more information, see the AACA website.

 

HOW IS THE APE AFFECTED BY THE 2021 NSCA?

From January 2024, the APE will follow the 2021 National Standard of Competency for Architects (NSCA).

WHAT IS THE FORMAT OF THE 2024 APE?

The 2024 Architectural Practice Examination remains unchanged, comprising three parts:

  • Part 1: Submission of a Logbook and Statement of Practical Experience;
  • Part 2: National Examination Paper; and
  • Part 3: Examination by Interview

Candidates who have met the requirements of all three parts of the Architectural Practice Examination may apply for registration to the architect registration board in any state or territory in Australia. The architect registration boards in all Australian states and territories have legislative duties to determine eligibility for registration as an architect.

WHAT IS THE TRANSITION BETWEEN 2015 NSCA AND 2021 NSCA?

APE Part 3 candidates who submitted 2023 (or prior) documents, may need to resubmit Part 1 documents using the 2024 APE format.

Refer the below table and confirm details with your local board:

  • ACT:  No transition must resubmit Part 1 with 2024 format.
  • NSW: No transition must resubmit Part 1 with 2024 format.
  • NT: No transition must resubmit Part 1 with 2024 format.
  • QLD: 24-month transition, expires end 2025. Refer QLD Board for conditions.
  • SA: No transition must resubmit Part 1 with 2024 format. Refer SA Board for special consideration.
  • TAS: 12-month transition, expires end 2024. Refer Tas Board for conditions.
  • VIC: No transition must resubmit Part 1 with 2024 format.
  • WA: 12-month transition, expires end 2024. Refer WA Board for conditions.

All APE Part 3 interviews will use the 2021 NSCA.

WHAT ARE THE KEY CHANGES TO THE APE FOR 2024?

PART 1: Submission of a logbook and statement of practical experience

  • Practical experience to be logged in an online version of the AACA Logbook
  • There is no longer a requirement to log experience against Observer, Participant and Executive headings
  • The Statement of Practical Experience must be verified by a registered architect
  • Candidates are required to complete the APE Performance Criteria Report cross-referencing their experience to the Performance Criteria
  • Candidates are required to review the AACA APE Study Guide and Online Resources

PART 2: National Examination Paper (NEP)

  • The scenarios and questions in the National Examination Paper expanded to reflect the 2021 NSCA.
  • The number of questions and time allowed to complete the National Examination Paper will be increased from a 45-question exam to be completed in 80 minutes, to an 80-question exam to be completed in 120 minutes.

PART 3: Examination by interview

  • Discussion in the Interview will focus on the areas of practice in line with the 2021 NSCA.

For more information about the Architectural Practice Examination (APE) and links to all key documents, see the AACA website.