The Australian AMWF has adapted the Architects Mental Wellbeing Toolkit (UK), with local resources and simple practical advice to individuals and practices on coping with the stresses of an increasingly pressured profession. Available for download today!

The ACA is delighted to take the lead on the development of an Architects Mental Wellbeing Forum (AMWF) in Australia, which will build on the great work being done by AMWF in the UK. Forums were established in Victoria, Queensland and NSW in 2020, with SA and WA groups up and running in early 2021.

The Keith Neighbour Graduate Study Program assists those sitting registration exams in South Australia.

The ACA - SA Practice Administrators Group meets informally to discuss matters of common interest.

The ACA is proud to present our second online wellbeing event in the AMWF Toolkit series. Book now and join us on 27 February for an important conversation about how office culture, overtime and long hours can impact wellbeing. See you online!

The QLD/NT Committee, in association with Moss Architectural Learning, is pleased to support the ‘Gap Filler 24’ training course, with a 10% discount on offer for all ACA QLD/NT members. The next course will commence on 7 March.

Join the ACA QLD/NT on Tuesday 28 February for a special presentation and site tour of the Potter Building Adaptive Reuse Project at the All Hallows School in Brisbane.

The ACA SA committee will host its annual Welcome Breakfast at Luigi’s Delicatessen on Tuesday 21 February. Book now to reserve your place.

The WA Committee is delighted to invite members to its annual Welcome Breakfast at Little Way in Nedlands for breakfast to kick off the new year.

It’s been another busy and challenging year for all in the architectural community. The NSW/ACT Branch Committee has continued working hard to deliver informative CPD presentations and networking opportunities as well as useful resources to the membership.

Advocacy, mental wellbeing and culture have been a strong focus for the SA Branch Committee in 2022, with highlights including the return of BoSP, the annual Business of Design Lunch and the first AMWF Toolkit event.

A busy year of advocacy, resource development and online events for the VIC/TAS Committee was celebrated in style with end-of-year drinks and amazing views from high up on the deck at the Macquarie Building.

In 2022, the QLD/NT branch committee were delighted to get back to doing what they do so well – providing interesting and topical face to face events, networking opportunities and bringing people back together for some much-missed in-person interactions.

The WA Committee has had another productive year, providing business advice relevant to our state, advocating on behalf of our members and many opportunities to socialise. Our WA Update provides a summary of the activities that have kept us busy in 2022.

The NSW/ACT Committee is proud to present two students in the Architecture course at the University of Western Sydney with a prize for outstanding work in units related to Practice Management.

ACA CEO Angelina Pillai was recently invited to comment on the results of the Monash Wellbeing of Architecture Survey, which revealed concerning statistics about the impact of work practices on the mental wellbeing of people working in the profession. Angelina offers the ACA’s perspective on these results.

The ACA is proud to present the first in our AMWF Toolkit Event Series on 28 November. Book now for an important conversation about how the Physical Office Environment can impact on wellbeing. See you online!

NSW/ACT Vice President Farhad Edibam and committee invite members to join them on Thursday 17 November at the Howling Moon Bar at the Canberra Rex Hotel.

WA President Kukame McPierzie and committee invite members to our annual End-of-Year Celebration! This year we’ll enjoy refreshments and friendship in the garden at Gordon Street Garage.

Clients, like all people, value being listened to and afforded the opportunity of giving feedback, says Beaton Chairman George Beaton, who discusses the powerful impact of feedback on client satisfaction and professional reputation.

ACA WA invites all members to attend a very special presentation by Scott Patterson, Director at Ochre Project Services.

ACA SA and National President John Held and the SA Branch Committee are hosting Christmas Drinks at The Gilbert Hotel on 29 November.

The ACA – VIC/TAS Branch Committee was delighted to host a special members event on 29 August. The ACA committee, partners, industry figures and ACA members joined CEO Angelina Pillai and National President John Held for drinks and light refreshments, and to hear our plans for the months ahead.

The SA Committee was delighted to host the fourth annual Business of Design lunch on Thursday 18 August with guest speakers Lindsay and Kerry Clare. Several attendees share their reflections here.

CareerTrackers placements with Lendlease and SJB gave Samantha Rich valuable experience, feedback and skills she could immediately draw upon when she left university.

The ACA WA Branch wrote to Minister Roger Cook ahead of his meeting with State Building Ministers to advocate for the lifting of Energy Performance Standards in the National Construction Code 2022.

SJB has implemented two mentoring programs to cater for different preferences and needs – a less formal program called SJBuddies and the more formal SJB Mentoring.

The ACA VIC/TAS branch is pleased to inform its members that the proposed changes to the Architects Registration Board of Victoria, to reduce the number of members and remove the requirement for any member to be a registered architect, have been averted for now.

Join the WA branch for an in-depth look at the changes to the Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WA) and the implications for architects. This online event is not to be missed!

Join the VIC/TAS branch committee for drinks and light refreshments on Monday 29 August. Hear our plans for the months ahead, and meet the ACA team, industry guests, fellow members and peers.

Bates Smart outlines their reasons for setting up their mentoring program, which is part of a broader Career Planning Framework and includes approximately 280 participants.

COX Architecture outlines how their mentoring program works, the benefits and challenges of implementation, and some advice for others keen on setting up a program for their own practice.

Stephen Pearse provides a recap of the ACA’s recent six-monthly catch-up and CPD event in Canberra. It was an excellent evening for all, with informative presentations and a chance to learn, earn CPD and meet up.

Automatic Mutual Recognition is now available in South Australia for accredited building professionals to operate using their interstate licences.

The QLD/NT Committee is hosting a lunch forum on Wednesday 24 August on The Client Brief and Managing Your Fees. Join guest speakers Lawrence Toaldo from Conrad Gargett, Mark Williams from Mark Williams Architects and Darren Cardy from Ashburner Francis, with moderator David Brian from dwp Architects.

Join the ACA NSW/ACT Committee on Wednesday 10 August for a presentation about the NSW D&BP Act by Principal Building Inspector Jonathan Lynch and Senior Building Inspector and registered architect Charles Zhang from Building Professional Audits, NSW Fair Trading.

Don’t miss the next AMWF online session on Wednesday 27 July on Mental Health in the construction industry. Join us for an important discussion with Jorgen Gullestrup, who led the development of the MATES in Construction program.

The SA branch is proud to offer members the opportunity to participate in the St John Mental Health First Aid Training at a reduced price.

The SA Committee would like to thank outgoing members Ian Hore, Graham Hardy and Simon Thomson, and introduce three new members – Simon Frost, Katherine Dujmovic and Michael Hegarty. Welcome to all!

In the ACA SA Committee, members are passionate and committed to representing the business of architecture and being a voice for practices in their state. Here, Mario Dreosti, Catherine Startari and Simon Thomson offer a glimpse of their ongoing advocacy work.

Our wonderful sponsor, Anna Roussos from Roussos Recruitment, offers a roundup of the Adelaide architectural employment market – a market with a challenging talent shortfall and an industry that is likely to remain buoyant in 2022.

The ACA SA Committee is hosting its 5th annual Business of Design lunch with guest speakers Kerry and Lindsay Clare from Clare Design on 18 August.

The ACA SA has had a strong focus on advocacy, mental wellbeing and culture, and has welcomed the return of BoSP.

QLD/NT President Gilda Donegan provides a recap of the first six months of 2022, where the branch committee has continued to learn to be adaptable.

The ACA in WA continues to go from strength to strength, with 82 member practices representing nearly 600 staff. Advocacy on the National Registration Framework is currently a major focus for the WA Committee.

The VIC/TAS branch of the ACA has made a joint statement with the Victorian chapter of the Institute in response to proposed changes to the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV), stating that consumer protection is under threat.

Join the ACA NSW/ACT Committee on Thursday 21 July for a Zoom presentation by Nigel Bell, architect and expert in the design of bushfire compliant buildings.

Join the ACA SA committee, Planned Cover and Blue Zebra Insurance for our next Practice Managers Lunch on 21 July, which will tackle the timely topic of cybercrime and how to reduce risk.

ACA WA invites you to our annual Business of Design Lunch with special guest speaker, Dale Alcock.

On Friday 24 June, ACA WA will uncover the tips and techniques you need to elevate your marketing and establish an authentic voice for your business.

Join the ACA NSW/ACT committee on Wednesday 29 June for a special presentation on the changes and updates to the NCC with Luke Sheehy from Design Confidence.

The WA Branch has two exciting events coming up – a Business of Small Practice event and the annual Business of Design Lunch.

The QLD/NT Committee thanks their outgoing members and introduces four new members – Ben Madden, Mark Kennedy, Justine Ebzery and Adam Perrier. Welcome to all!

Jennifer Crawford provides a recap of the recent Sydney event, Becoming Fearless in Practice, presented by Michael Lewarne.

Tom Earls from Fair Work Lawyers provides an overview of the new WHS laws brought into effect in WA in March 2022. Practices need to be aware that there are potentially significant changes to the way that safety in design is dealt with under the new WHS legislation.

Woods Bagot explains the process of committing to increased flexibility and outlines some of the benefits and challenges as they move forward into the ‘new normal’. 

BVN outlines some of the initiatives that have worked for them in their transition to the All Roles Flex model and now a Hybrid Working Model.

COX Architecture identified some key takeaways from the implementation process of the All Roles Flex policy.

Join the ACA SA committee and Warwick Mihaly from Mihaly Slocombe for our next Business of Small Practice event on 24 May. Book now!

The Architects Mental Wellbeing Forum QLD/NT is running an online session on Thursday 5 May on rethinking leadership with a view to improving the wellbeing and contribution of all in practice.

Join Michael Lewarne and the NSW/ACT branch on Wednesday 27 April for a presentation on reshaping practice and exploring new possibilities. Don’t miss our first Sydney face to face event for the year.

The WA branch has had a busy start to the year on the advocacy front, with two major projects dominating our efforts and a strengthening of our collaboration with industry partners.

Greenway Architects Director Simon Frost discusses the challenges of the blended digital and physical environment, the need for empathetic collaboration in the industry, and the importance of prioritising good mental health.

Ardex National Specification and Training Manager Joel Clough says that the current demand for improved innovation in waterproofing, and increasing collaboration with architects during the specification phase, will lead to better outcomes and ultimately help return trust to the industry.

The ACA SA branch is delighted to announce their continued involvement with ROUSSOS Recruitment as their 2022 State Sponsor.

The SA committee has organised a breakfast catch-up at Luigi’s Delicatessen on Tuesday 5 April. Save the date! 

The WA and SA branches are running an online session on the succession planning process with Macquarie Bank’s Daniel Bolt on Friday 1 April.

Emily Van Eyk, Director of Mt Eyk, shares her experiences of running a new practice through a pandemic, with the main challenges relating to supply chain delays, rising construction costs and keeping up with demand.

Did you miss our recent Specification seminar? The ACA has developed a two-part seminar on ‘how to write specifications’ in conjunction with Greg Blain. It’s a critical skill for architectural practices. Now available for a discounted price as CPD On Demand.

Join the ACA QLD/NT on Tuesday 22 February to discuss key industry priorities for regional architects. Don’t miss it!

Fulton Trotter Director Justine Ebzery says that Zoom and lockdown fatigue is real, and keeping up morale and maintaining motivation and energy levels through so much COVID uncertainty has been a key focus.

The SA Committee will host a series of online roundtable discussions from 16–22 February for SA members to share challenges, ask questions and support each other. 

The ACA sadly advises that longtime VIC/TAS Committee member and dear friend Gary Edwards OAM passed away on 13 January 2022. He will be sorely missed.

The QLD/NT Committee’s Trivia Night has had to be postponed, but it’s not too early to start prepping with practice-based trivia sessions.

Immediate Past President of the ACA QLD/NT Robert Wesener provides a comprehensive update of the ACA’s advocacy efforts in Queensland.

The ACA QLD/NT will host a special lunch in Darwin for members and non-members on 17 February. Keep an eye on your inboxes for more details.

Silver Thomas Hanley Business Manager and ACA VIC/TAS Committee member Matthew Tence says good communication and significant IT investment have helped navigate and overcome the challenges of the last two years.

QLD/NT Committee member Denis Waring shares his pandemic experiences as Principal of PW Architecture, and the need to prioritise people through challenging times.

Join the ACA – QLD/NT and Queensland Government Architect Leah Lang on Wednesday 2 February to discuss key industry priorities for the year ahead.

The WA Branch is kicking off the year with a relaxed breakfast shared amongst our committee, members, and special invited guests.

Join the ACA and the Business of Small Practice (BoSP) for a follow-up Q&A chat to delve into the detail about fee variations on Wednesday 15 December.

This year, the VIC/TAS Committee concentrated on advocacy to government, industry engagement, mental wellbeing and re-energising our support for Tasmanian members.

The key focus for the WA committee in 2021 has been to advocate, connect and inform, with ongoing advocacy for policy improvements with government Ministers and key decision makers within the built environment.

The ACA – SA has been active this year in a number of areas, including events, mental wellbeing, advocacy and consultation with other professional bodies.

In 2021, the NSW/ACT branch focused on CPD events on the NSW D&BP Act, advocacy, collaboration with other professional bodies and prioritising mental wellbeing.

Promoting mental wellbeing in the profession has never been more important. The following recap highlights the wonderful work being done in the Architects Mental Wellbeing Forums around the country.

It’s been a busy year for the QLD/NT branch with a full event calendar, a continuation of ongoing advocacy discussions with local governments, and a focus on engagement with the regions.

WA President, Kukame McPierzie, and committee invite members to join us for our annual Rooftop Drinks at the Alex Hotel on 26 November.

Save the date for the Canberra end-of-year Christmas drinks at the Howling Moon Rooftop Bar on Tuesday 14 December.

ACA – SA and National President, John Held, and SA Committee invite members to join us for Christmas Drinks at Roxie’s.

Save the date for an end of year get together with the Vic/Tas committee, ACA members and guests at The Leveson’s outdoor courtyard in North Melbourne on Tuesday 30 November.

Our NSW/ACT branch is celebrating 24 member practices who have been with the ACA for 25 years or more! This special group have been with us almost since the beginning and have witnessed dramatic change in both the profession and in our Association.

Monash University Professor of Architecture Naomi Stead provides an update on the three-year, Australian Research Council–funded research project about the wellbeing of practitioners and students in architecture, with an emphasis on some early findings of the recent practitioner survey.

Conrad Gargett HR Manager and AMWF member Brooke Tranberg outlines some of the practice’s wellbeing initiatives, including in-house Social and Wellbeing Committees, a well-promoted EAP, open conversations about mental health, and a pre-COVID all-company Archi-Tour to foster connection.

Popular wellbeing initiatives for Fulton Trotter have included Wellness Wednesday, a formal EAP, Zoom drinks, yoga and art classes, and a little ‘lockdown love’, says FT Director and Chair of the AMWF QLD/NT Justine Ebzery.

BVN’s Head of People & Character Brian Clohessy describes the practice’s wellbeing initiatives, including inhouse Working Cultural Groups, which focus on the three pillars of physical, social and mental wellbeing.

AMWF Vic/Tas member Kirby Roper reflects on the stresses of regular snap lockdowns and ways of maintaining wellbeing in practice, including the establishment of Innovation Day and being prepared for future disruptions.

The WA branch of the ACA, alongside the Planning Institute of Australia, Australian Institute of Architects and the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA), will be having an important and timely discussion on design review on 17 September at the Melbourne Hotel.

In mid-August, WA members gathered at Double Rainbow at The Rechabite for the ACA’s annual Business of Design Lunch, featuring speaker Adrian Fini, Founder of Hesperia and celebrated developer and patron of art and design.

Former Premier of Victoria and trained architect Ted Baillieu emphasises that ventilation in buildings is an urgent priority, deserving of a national taskforce to offer guidance and highlight the importance of air quality management.

Join the Architects Mental Wellbeing Forum in South Australia for their next We Should Talk session on Wednesday 22 September.

More than 300 architects registered for our recent BoSP webinar on fees with Kate Fitzgerald, Warwick Mihaly and Mick Moloney, and we’re still not sure if it was the topic or the presenters that generated all that interest!

The Industry Report on Digitalisation of Design and Construction of Class 2 Buildings in New South Wales was launched in late August, after extensive research conducted by the University of Western Sydney’s Centre for Smart Modern Construction.

Our Architects Mental Wellbeing Forums have been sharing podcasts, videos, TED Talks and lots of excellent ideas on how to get through lockdowns and difficult times during this pandemic. Here are a few of their recommendations.

The BoSP CPD online session on Fees features In Detail podcast members Kate Fitzgerald, Warwick Mihaly and Mick Moloney. This popular discussion is now for purchase on demand. 

On Wednesday 8 September, the QLD/NT branch will run the first in a Q&A series with prominent architects, this time with Lindsay and Kerry Clare. Don’t miss it. Book now!

Join us on Wednesday 8 September for a special presentation by Kirsten Orr, Registrar, NSW Architects Registration Board, on the regulatory context of architecture in NSW with a focus on Class 2 Buildings.

The first of a five-part CPD series on the NSW Design & Building Practitioners Act (DBP Act) features an information session by special counsel Christopher Larcos of Moray & Agnew Lawyers. The presentation sets out key issues as they apply to architects.

The third of a five-part CPD series on the NSW Design & Building Practitioners Act (DBP Act) features an information session by Paul Viney on the consequences of the Act in relation to regulated design requirements and the provision of architectural services.

Number four in a five-part CPD series on the NSW Design & Building Practitioners Act (DBP Act) features Simon Gray and Carina Bogaard from Planned Cover discussing the insurance implications of the bill.

With one in five Australians experiencing a mental illness every year, and COVID amplifying the stresses of life even further, the need for education around mental health is more important than ever. Here we explore some of the options.

The AMWF (Australia) was just starting to get off the ground when COVID hit in early 2020. Since then, we have established forums in five states, with groups regularly meeting online and face to face to share knowledge, experiences, research and strategies in a bid to support architects’ mental health in the workplace.

The quality of the physical office environment in which you work, whether in practice or at home, can have a huge impact on wellbeing and productivity. Section five of the Architects Mental Wellbeing Toolkit offers tips on how to make positive adaptations to work spaces.

Regular movement, physical exercise and mindful activities help to improve mental wellbeing during the work day but also productivity. The final section of the Architects Mental Wellbeing Toolkit offers useful reminders on prioritising group activities and exercise.

The WA and SA branches are proud to offer members the opportunity to participate in the St John’s Mental Health First Aid Training at a reduced price.

Adopting wellbeing initiatives in practice is important, but monitoring how these are going should also be a priority. Section seven of the Architects Mental Wellbeing Toolkit offers tips and resources around maintaining a healthy, positive and supportive workplace.

New technologies can help us complete tasks more quickly and efficiently, as well as offering us increased accessibility and convenience – but there is a downside. The sixth section of the Architects Mental Wellbeing Toolkit warns against us becoming slaves to new technology, with increased stress and information overload.

Low fees, under-resourced projects and difficult clients can have an enormous impact on the wellbeing of all within practice. The fourth section of the Architects Mental Wellbeing Toolkit tackles these important issues.

The third section of the Architects Mental Wellbeing Toolkit emphasises the importance of structured development and a supportive environment to help make the work/study balance as easy as possible for students, interns, and graduates on the pathway to registration.

How can support systems and workplace training opportunities help staff wellbeing? The second section of the Architects Mental Wellbeing Toolkit offers tips and resources on creating a mentally healthy workplace.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) aim to improve wellbeing among employees and their families, and to offer expert on-call assistance when needed. Early intervention can help alleviate stress and reduce the likelihood and severity of serious work-based and personal problems.

Successfully managing stress levels within the workplace is an important component of long-term health for anyone. The first section of the Architects Mental Wellbeing Toolkit covers the importance of a good healthy office culture, effective time management and prioritising time away from work.

Being vulnerable is challenging but it’s often necessary to make change happen. Modelling vulnerability is the action of a leader, writes Michael Lewarne.

On Tuesday 8 June, the ACA – SA Committee was delighted to host its popular annual Business of Design Lunch with guest speaker Emma Williamson from TheFulcrum.Agency. Three attendees offer a recap.

AACA CEO Kathlyn Loseby joins the organisation at an exciting time, with new competency standards to finalise and roll out, automatic mutual recognition on the way, and other new programs in development.

Improving mental wellbeing in practice is fundamental to the future of the profession. The ACA is proud to support the major research project Architectural Work Cultures: professional identity, education and wellbeing, and encourages all to participate in this important survey on work-related wellbeing.

The popular annual Risky Business webinar, held in July 2021, featured expert speakers offering legal, insurance and practitioner insights on how to actively manage risk in practice.

The WA Committee have rescheduled their Business of Design Lunch to Friday 20 August 2021 with guest speaker Adrian Fini.

The WA Committee outlines activity and priorities for the last six months and plans for the year ahead, with a strong focus on quality information, advocacy and connection.

The ACA – SA has had a strong focus on advocacy, mental wellbeing and culture, and have welcomed the return of their popular series of face-to-face business lunches. 

The NSW D&BP Act has been a key focus for the NSW/ACT Committee in the first half of 2021, with ongoing advocacy and a suite of seminars to assist members in understanding the implications of the new legislation, writes Jennifer Crawford.

The VIC/TAS Committee has prioritised government advocacy, presentations of the ACA Business Toolbox and further development of tools for members in the first half of 2021.

QLD/NT President Gilda Donegan provides a recap of the first six months of 2021, a period where the key themes were to learn, change and adapt!

On Wednesday 23 June, the Architects Mental Wellbeing Forum (QLD/NT) will host a special online discussion on wellbeing in the profession with Monica Edwards and Brett Hudson from the Champions of Change Coalition.

Keeping clients’ interests at the forefront is a key priority for Surry Hills–based ArtMade Architects, who have won Client’s Choice Awards two years running.

The ACA – SA Committee is excited to host its popular annual Business of Design Lunch on Tuesday 8 June with guest speaker Emma Williamson from TheFulcrum.Agency.

Longstanding ACA member dwp has grown through a combination of acquisitions and organic growth over recent years and now has 12 studios across eight countries.

NSW/ACT committee member Jennifer Crawford provides a comprehensive recap of a recent ACA event about NSW building reform, where legal counsel Christopher Larcos took us through the legal implications of the D&BP Act.

The ACA – QLD/NT branch committee is hosting a lunch forum on the National Construction Code on Wednesday 26 May with guest speaker Michael Moran.

Planned Cover National Business Manager Cos Cirocco reflects on the evolution of PI Insurance in the building industry, the impacts of the NSW D&BP Act on the insurance market, and future changes and complexities in the industry.

Last month, the QLD/NT branch committee organised a site tour of the seven-storey Science Learning Centre at the Brisbane Girls Grammar School. Ray Giarola provides a recap.

The ACA – WA reflects on the successful (and impactful) Medium Density Symposium and asks members to save the date for an upcoming event on the Business of Design.

New reform promises improved medium-density outcomes, but what key measures will better shape Perth’s urban future? Katie McDonald from Business News takes a look at WA’s proposed medium density planning policy and the ACA’s recent symposium in Perth.

The NSW/ACT branch committee is delighted to present another face to face event on Thursday 27 May, with speaker Michael Lewarne exploring important questions about the nature of architectural practice and how we might do things differently in a post-COVID world.

On 31 March, the WA branch hosted its most ambitious event yet – a symposium on the State Government’s proposed policy to guide medium density developments across Western Australia. Emma Brain provides a recap.

The WA branch has been leading a series of initiatives aimed at engaging the architecture profession with the State Government’s draft Medium Density Code. Watch our short film featuring some of the designers who worked with DesignWA to shape this policy ... and then have your say.

Architecture is a second career for Michelle Blakeley. Here, she talks about the advantages of age, the influence of her former career, and the founding of an organisation to build homes for people experiencing homelessness.

The WA branch of the ACA will present a special Medium Density Symposium on Wednesday 31 March in collaboration with Open House Perth (OHP).

The QLD/NT Committee provides a branch update for March, with a welcome to new members, a new CPD webinar series, a review of the recent trivia night, and a look at the Jobsupport program used by Populous.

The ACA – SA Committee started the year with their annual welcome breakfast and the launch of the Architects Mental Wellbeing Forum on 23 February.

It’s been a huge start to the year for the WA branch with two functions, an influx of new members and one new sponsor joining our community. Here’s a rundown of where we are at and where we are headed in 2021.

The ACA – NSW/ACT Committee is delighted to welcome four new elected committee members (from top left, clockwise): Jennifer Crawford, Ivana Simkovic, Justine Money and Fabricio Siqueira.

The small, busy team at Susan Dugdale and Associates have found that reputation and relationships are key when working in a remote regional location like Alice Springs.

The QLD/NT Architects Mental Wellbeing Forum provides an update on recent activities, their plans for the year and an invitation to get involved.

The WA branch is proud to launch the Architects Mental Wellbeing Forum on Wednesday 3 March.

The Studio Director of GHDWoodhead in Queensland, Gilda Donegan, is our new QLD/NT Branch President. Congratulations Gilda! 

As we embark on 2021 and look to the future, join the ACA – SA for a very special Welcome Breakfast as we launch the Architects Mental Wellbeing Forum.

The NSW/ACT branch of the ACA has joined forces with Sydney East Architects to host a special event on contemporary heritage matters in NSW on Wednesday 17 February.

The ACA is delighted to announce the appointment of new WA Branch President Kukame McPierzie, who shares his first message for 2021. 

Join the ACA – Qld/NT Committee and Quiz Master Robert Wesener for the 2021 Trivia Night on 26 February.

The pandemic demanded rapid adaptation for Kirby Architects, but the experience was also empowering, revealing the possibilities of positive change and bringing the team closer and more determined to do great work.

From 1 February, Victoria will have much stricter prohibitions on ACPs containing polyethylene and expanded polystyrene, writes lawyer and risk manager Wendy Poulton.

The WA Committee invites all West Australian members to complete our 4-minute survey!

The WA branch committee and incoming WA President Kukame McPierzie are hosting a welcome breakfast for members on Wednesday 17 February.

The NSW/ACT branch takes us through the highlights of the year, with a busy online webinar calendar, continuing advocacy around the Design and Building Practitioners regulations, some anticipated Committee changes and plans for 2021.

The VIC/TAS branch looks back on a challenging but productive year, when member resources, industrial relations and advocacy were at the forefront.

The QLD/NT branch offers a summary of an extremely busy year, with a full event schedule and many priority issues to address through their advocacy.

Our WA branch offers an overview of 2020, a glimpse of upcoming advocacy and activity in 2021, and some reflections from our retiring WA President Malcolm Jones and Committee stalwart, Leigh Robinson.

The SA Committee provides a 2020 recap on advocacy, events, roundtable discussions and regular Zoom check-ins, and outlines plans for the year ahead.

The ACA is delighted to introduce Tom Earls of Fair Work Lawyers (FWL), who will provide principal industrial relations advisory services for ACA members.

Wellbeing, localism and optimism can summarise the discussion at the ACA’s recent Adelaide roundtable on the post-COVID reality for South Australia, writes Mario Dreosti.

WA President Malcolm Jones and committee will host drinks on the rooftop of the Alex Hotel on 3 December to celebrate the start of the festive season.

The following updated resource roundup highlights the work of a number of key organisations, who have worked hard during the pandemic to support people at this difficult time and develop useful toolkits, online forums and other avenues of support.

On 11 November 2020, guest speaker Alex Chistiakoff presented an ACA webinar on delivering high quality documentation efficiently and consistently. 

Are we architects so we can be in business, or in business so we can be architects? The ACA and the BoSP forum met on 23 November for an insightful conversation about developing simultaneously as an architect and an entrepreneur. 

The WA Committee is excited to announce that our Christmas drinks are back on the rooftop of the Alex Hotel for another year!

Join the WA Committee and tech entrepreneur Bill Withers on 15 October to explore how to build a successful and sustainable business, through challenges and adversity.

Having succession planning in place with a contingency is critical to the survival of your business. Join the ACA on Tuesday 6 October 2020 for a special presentation on Succession Planning from Daniel Orrell from Planned Life Cover.

The ACA is delighted to take the lead on the development of an Architects Mental Wellbeing Forum (AMWF) in Australia, which will build on the great work being done by AMWF in the UK. Forums were established in Victoria, Queensland and NSW in 2020, with SA and WA groups up and running in early 2021.

The ACA – Vic/Tas has released the results of the first VicPulse survey. Top level findings reveal worrying levels of work cancelled or on hold. On the other hand, the survey responses are quite positive in terms of wellbeing and many practices have been able to keep staff on due to the support of JobKeeper.

As Victoria hits the halfway mark of Lockdown 2.0, we provide an update of recent activity in the Vic/Tas branch, with the VicPulse survey (still open), the new Mental Wellbeing Forum and a VBA Update of COVID-19 Guidelines.

One week into Stage 4 ‘Stay at Home’ restrictions in Melbourne and Stage 3 restrictions in regional Victoria, key information and resources for individuals and business continues to be rolled out. The following is a summary of useful information and links.

The WA branch committee provides an advocacy update and is delighted to welcome three new committee members.

Justine Ebzery reflects on the need for targeted funding for new public housing, public schools and community health infrastructure, with adequate resources for design and planning.

Jennifer Crawford highlights the eligibility issues of JobKeeper and HomeBuilder, and describes her recent move back to the life of a sole practitioner.

ACA – WA President Malcolm Jones reflects on JobKeeper, the flexible workplace, and the need for more resources for infrastructure of long-term benefit.

The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) has issued an update of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidelines for the Victorian building and construction industry, incorporating recent changes to restrictions and government subsidies.

ACA - Vic/Tas President and FFPV Director Paul Viney reflects on his experiences with past and present economic downturns, the need for more government investment in civic projects and social housing, and the challenges of COVID-19 and remote working.

The WA branch is getting back into the swing of things, with an upcoming government meeting and the annual Business of Design lunch.

The 2020 Risky Business webinar covers common legal issues for architectural practices, with lawyer John Moore and Planned Cover manager Karen Meiklejohn.

The NSW/ACT Committee and President Agi Sterling are delighted to invite you to attend our half-yearly get together in Canberra on Wednesday 29 July.

Highlights for 2020 for ACA - WA have been three successful online events and continued government advocacy.

The SA Committee has been focused on events, advocacy and engagement with government and industry and, in particular, with ongoing discussions relating to Government procurement policy.

The QLD/NT Committee has focused on promoting the value of architects, industry engagement with representation on several committees, and a diverse program of events.

The VIC/TAS Committee has been extremely busy this year with the Industrial Relations Committee's work and several timely new additions to the ACA Business Toolbox.

The NSW/ACT Committee made a rapid shift to events online, continued its important advocacy work, and instigated key initiatives for the ACA Business Toolbox.

What will be the role of architects in light of the new Building Practitioners' legislation in NSW? Join the ACA - NSW/ACT and NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler on Wednesday 20 May for a special discussion on future directions for the construction industry.

The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) has released the latest version of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidelines for the building and construction industry in Victoria.

Could you have a better understanding of the National Construction Code? The ACA is offering a CPD training course on 12 and 26 May in conjunction with Philip Chun to upskill architects in respect to using the NCC for Commercial Buildings.

How can you use LinkedIn to communicate your practice's point of difference, build your networks and land new clients? Join the ACA on 6 May for an online event with LinkedIn expert, Kylie Butler, to discover how you can best leverage this vital networking and marketing tool to stand out from your competition.

Working remotely can be challenging and disruptive, and requires realistic expectations and a flexible approach, says Charmaine Kai of Brisbane-based practice 8i Architects.

COVID-19 disruption has been all-encompassing, but there are signs of innovation, community resilience and relationship building emerging all around us, observes Kate Fitzgerald of Fremantle-based Whispering Smith.

Existing investment in new digital platforms has meant that dwp|design worldwide partnership was well placed to switch to working mode when the COVID-19 crisis arose.

As Queensland prepared for lockdown, Cairns-based practice People Oriented Design worked on strategies with health, wellbeing and the long-term financial sustainability of the practice firmly in mind.

Hayball has explored varied modes of working and learning over many years, but the rapid shift to remote, distributed workplaces in the era of COVID-19 is a new challenge.

Join the ACA for a Remote Working Webinar on 15 April, with leadership and communication specialists Hannah Fitzhardinge and Jeroen van Dalen.

Join the ACA - WA's Business of Small Practice (BoSP) team and Line Paras from business support agency Counting Clouds on 22 April for a webinar on how to manage small business finance in a crisis.

The ACA - SA committee has completed a survey and organised a series of three broader roundtable video conferences to gauge member practice responses and experiences in the pandemic conditions currently in play. Very consistent themes emerged across all practices large and small.

For BVN, the transition to all staff working from home has been ‘seamless’. The ease of the move is an outcome of already having robust flex systems in place, a commitment to open honest communication, and a focus on health and wellbeing.

Online support is more important than ever. The ACA invites architectural practices across Australia to share practice experiences, knowledge and strategies.

Brown Falconer is in the process of transitioning all staff to remote working. Mario Dreosti emphasises the importance of open communication and sharing both the knowns and the unknowns as essential to building trust, autonomy and initiative.

In the first of our re-worked events that we are now presenting as webinars, communications expert Rachael Bernstone will teach us how to re-purpose our awards submissions into marketing gold on 1 April.

Thomson Rossi’s approach to managing the practice in the context of the novel coronavirus is guided by a COVID-19 Policy Statement, which establishes clear boundaries and habits. Simon Thomson explains that the intent is to keep the office open as long as possible.

TheFulcrum.Agency partner Emma Williamson explains how the consultancy is responding to COVID-19 and offers advice about how to proactively manage through a crisis while maintaining the cultural integrity of your practice.

Justine Ebzery outlines the steps Fulton Trotter has taken in response to COVID-19 so far, including clear, regular communication to clients and employees, transitioning to more work from home arrangements, and a focus on patience and kindness.

Taylor Robinson Chaney Broderick (TRCB) has been trialling staff working from home for a number of weeks. Leigh Robinson generously shares details about how this is working, lessons learned, and the guidelines the practice has developed.

Welcome to the ACA - SA calendar for 2020. We look forward to seeing you at events throughout the year!

The QLD/NT branch’s latest update includes the recent vertical school site tour, the 2020 event calendar, advocacy, CPD, committee members and corporate partners.

Join the ACA for a lively online discussion about juggling home and work, practice and parenting with Melonie Bayl-Smith and Michael Lewarne.

Vice President of the NSW/ACT branch Michael Lewarne discusses his early career, lessons learned in practice, and the value of thinking critically, maintaining curiosity, and making space for opportunities along the way.

The ACA - SA Committee kicked off the year in style with a delicious breakfast spread at the President’s Welcome Breakfast on 13 February.

The Keith Neighbour Graduate Study Program assists those sitting registration exams in South Australia.

The QLD/NT Calendar for 2020 is once again jampacked with events, from lunch forums to panel discussions, site tours and trivia nights.

Join the ACA - QLD/NT committee and guest speaker Bronwyn Weir for a special lunch presentation in Brisbane on Thursday 5 March on the architect’s role in industry reform. Book now for this unmissable event.

The ACA – WA Committee has a host of interesting events planned for 2020. Here’s a rundown. Keep an eye on your inboxes for more detailed invitations.

Our WA branch celebrated the end of the year with drinks at the rooftop bar of The Alex Hotel, with special guests and a broad range of members from all scales of practice.

The ACA - WA Committee invites all members to a casual breakfast on Thursday 6 February to celebrate the start of a new year in business.

The NSW/ACT Committee has had a strong focus on advocacy this year, joining other industry groups to lobby government for building reform.

In South Australia, 2019 was a year of events, advocacy and engagement with government and industry.

The ACA - Qld/NT committee had another busy year, with two surveys, an extensive calendar of events and increased membership and expansion of sponsorship.

The ACA – WA Committee offers an overview of 2019 and a glimpse of 2020’s upcoming initiatives.

Raise a glass with the Vic/Tas committee and celebrate with end-of-year drinks in Melbourne on Tuesday 10 December.

The ACA – Vic/Tas Committee have had a busy year of advocacy, events and business tool development, with plenty more to come in 2020.

Anna Roussos spoke at a recent ACA Practice Managers Lunch in Adelaide about the value of employee happiness in practice.

Join the QLD/NT Committee and Sandra Browne and Qui Lu from Cottee Parker for a site tour of Gallery House in Hamilton on 12 November.

The first Business of Small Practice (BoSP) forum in Adelaide was a great success, with keynote speaker Kate Fitzgerald and an insightful panel sharing their workplace experiences and advice on small practice. Ian Hore reports.

The ACA welcomes NSW draft legislation and supports the NSW Government’s efforts on building quality.

The ACA - WA committee is proud to support a public forum organised by the WA chapter of Architects Declare that will debate how we as a profession might tackle the climate and ecological emergency.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about the NSW Land and Environment Court and its relevance to architects with Chris Shaw and Tim Horton on 27 November.

The Business of Small Practice forum series is an initiative of the WA Committee of the ACA. It brings together architects to share insights about the behind the scenes functions of practice. The third BoSP event in Perth focused on Money Matters.

For Melbourne-based Kosloff Architecture, building a positive, healthy practice culture is a key priority, and achieving B Corp status an important step in the evolution of the practice.

Book now for the Qld/NT branch committee's next lunch presentation on 18 October, when three guest speakers will discuss their digital journeys and the benefits of keeping on top of new tech.

Our Qld/NT branch update includes recent events, advocacy initiatives, education research and a couple of Save the Dates.

Join the ACA - Qld/NT Committee and Quiz Master Robert Wesener for the 2019 Dinner and Trivia Night on Friday 25 October.

The ACA - SA provides a review of activity over the last month, with events, new members and industry updates.

The NSW/ACT committee offers an update on recent advocacy and outlines future events.

The Vic/Tas committee talks events, ARBV nominations and the business toolbox.

Newly appointed Victorian State Building Surveyor Andrew Cialini says it’s time for the building industry to preference public safety and quality over cost, and to implement change for the good of overall outcomes rather than self-interest.

Join the ACA - NSW/ACT and Special Counsel Christopher Larcos on 16 October to learn more about the changes to ABIC Contracts.

On 29 August, the ACA - QLD/NT Committee will conduct an important forum covering the architects' role, skills and management, fragmentation of the procurement process and fee-cutting.

For Sydney-based Aileen Sage, early collaborations with artists, academics, innovators, larger architectural practices and other consultants have opened up a diversity of projects and opportunities.

As Birrelli celebrates its 25th year in business, Launceston-based architect and former ACA State President Jack Birrell reflects on the challenges and joys of practice on a remote island.

The release of the Victorian Cladding Taskforce Final Report and associated program of work is welcomed by the ACA, but the Federal Government must also take action to ensure a unified national approach.

The NSW/ACT Committee is in planning mode, with several new events and initiatives planned for the coming months.

The ACA - SA Committee announces three new upcoming events, welcomes a new sponsor, and outlines its most recent advocacy work with the DPTI.

As the end of the financial year approaches, QLD/NT Branch President Robert Wesener provides an update on the Committee's goals for the coming year.

On 5 June, the NSW/ACT Committee ran an event to discuss Version 2 of the ACA Short Form Client Architect Agreement, with author and Legal Counsel Christopher Larcos. ACA - NSW/ACT Vice President Michael Lewarne recaps the main points of the presentation.

For multidisciplinary practice GHDWoodhead, growing the business is about strategic focus and working hard, with continued growth, global expansion and ongoing diversification the key ambitions.

Ben Channon is an Associate and Mental Wellbeing Ambassador at Assael Architecture, and chair of the Architects' Mental Wellbeing Forum in the UK. Ben talks us through the forum's origins and ambitions.

Professor Naomi Stead, Head of Architecture at Monash University, is one of the champions of a proposed new research project currently under development, Mental Wellbeing of Architects and Architecture Students: Culture, Education and the Workplace, which aims to examine links between architectural culture and identity and mental wellbeing. Here, Naomi takes a quick look at the issues.

Join the ACA - WA on 31 May for an exclusive luncheon presentation on the Lacrosse Fire ruling and its implications for architects.

On 1 May, there was a great turnout at a Sydney seminar on the NSW Land and Environment Court. ACA - NSW/ACT Vice President Michael Lewarne offers a recap.

For emerging practice Winter Architecture, location is no obstacle to team collaboration, with employees located around Australia. Here, Director Jean Graham describes the practice’s origins, ambitions and determination to remain flexible, agile and openminded.

Architects and building certifiers found much common ground at a recent roundtable discussion in South Australia. Mario Dreosti reviews the main points, including the current appetite for increased speed and reduced cost over quality, and the importance of professional culture in effecting change.

There was standing room only at the ACA's recent Data at Work event in Fremantle, which combined a presentation of Parlour's most recent Census Report with a panel discussion about future action and advocacy. Emma Brain reports.

Darwin-based practice Jackman Gooden Architects prides itself on its success in collaborative projects, aligning with other local and interstate architects, specialist consultants and design-oriented building contractors.

Join the ACA - WA on Thursday 4 April for a panel discussion on the merits and pitfalls of joint ventures.

As International Women's Day 2019 approaches, ACA CEO Angelina Pillai reflects on her upbringing, the importance of seeing strong women leaders in public life, and the need to push for basic human rights for all.

Bijl Architecture founder and director Melonie Bayl-Smith shares the key lessons she has learned in practice, the value of mentoring programs, and the many benefits she has gained from involvement with professional organisations.

In 2018, HHH Architects celebrated its 40th anniversary on the Gold Coast, an opportune time to reflect on past achievements, succession planning and the challenges ahead.

Matthew Tence provides an update on ACA - VIC/TAS plans for the year.

As we kick off another year, we feature a wide-ranging interview with the first female Vice President of the National Executive Committee and President of the NSW / ACT branch.

The NSW Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Amendment Bill 2018 has passed parliament.

The ACA - WA recently held its second Business of Small Practice event, talking shares, trusts, asset protection and employee ownership.

Business courses, development programs and mentoring opportunities have helped motivate a reassessment and continual improvement approach for Rosalie Pech Eva.

A series of challenges at Williams Burton Leopardi provided the impetus for a radical review and rethink of everything from client interactions to studio systems and processes.

Ongoing strategic planning helps Fulton Trotter create a road map for future business development opportunities, ensuring they stay relevant and working in the markets that will sustain their business.

Join ACA - WA and Cbus on 2 November for a 'Lunch and Learn' about mental health on site and in practice.

The ACA - WA’s first Business of Small Practice forum focused on the importance of the ‘connected economy’, with networking and relationships at its core, writes Rachael Bernstone.

John Held, long-time ACA - SA President, is the new ACA National President. He introduces himself and plans for the future.

The ACA - Qld/NT has a new branch President. Congratulations to Robert Wesener! Robert will also be taking on the role of ACA National Treasurer.

Thanks to Mark Williams for his hard work and commitment.

The ACA is delighted to announce the appointment of Malcolm Jones as President of the WA branch.

Learning when to say no to the wrong client, the wrong project or the wrong situation in general has been valuable for Shannon Battisson of The Mill in Canberra.

ACA National President and WA Branch President Kieran Wong steps away from his leadership roles, and we thank him for all his passion and hard work.

The NSW Commissioner for Fair Trading has announced a building product ban for certain types of aluminium composite panel (ACP) cladding.

The ACA - Vic/Tas branch has had a busy few months, with elections, a business toolbox seminar and ongoing feedback on the Victorian Schools Capital Works program.

For Bryant Alsop, success comes from building strong relationships - with consultants, builders and suppliers as well as valued employees.

The ACA - NSW/ACT branch has planned a host of interesting events for the second half of 2018.

A client focus and a reverence for place have been fundamental for Denmark firm PTX Architects.

Events and advocacy - John Held on ACA - SA activity.

ACA - NSW/ACT has had a busy month, with several events and initiatives.

The latest advocacy and events in South Australia.

An inquiry led by former under treasurer, John Langoulant, into recent WA state government projects and contracts has revealed gross incompetence and highlighted the need for a major reformation to current procurement processes.

As the year draws to a close, ACA - SA continues to fight for the rights of architects, and the importance of procurement processes that support quality outcomes for the community.

This year has been a busy one for ACA - SA, with increased membership and plenty of new initiatives for research, advocacy and engagement.

ACA - Qld/NT President Mark Williams reflects on a year full of events and activity.

There is a real opportunity to work on the new 'design-led' schools program in South Australia. John Held explains - and how ACA can help.

ACA - NSW/ACT is moving ahead on a new program of events and initiatives.

30 years of ACA - SA. John Held outlines current work, and reviews the last year of advocacy and action.

An update from Agi Sterling, the new ACA - NSW/ACT President.

John Held with all the news from South Australia.

The ACA is thrilled to congratulate John Held, ACA - SA President, whose tireless work for the profession has been recognised with the 2017 Sir James Irwin President's Medal.

An update on activity from ACA - SA.

An update from ACA - SA.

The ACA Industry Discussion Paper on Procuring Architectural Services aims to provoke conversation and thought about the role procurement plays in the development of our cities and communities.

The ACA - SA's latest update features a strong program of events and advocacy for 2017.

There is a lot planned in SA for 2017. John Held provides an update.

ACA - SA has been working closely with the SA Department of Education and Child Development to introduce a new type of planning study for schools.

President John Held reports on a busy year for ACA in South Australia. Membership has risen, there’s generally a better vibe about the amount of work around.

Advocacy and action continues apace in South Australia.

The ACA - SA Practice Administrators Group meets informally to discuss matters of common interest.

The ACA - SA State of the Architectural Profession survey provides crucial research on the size, shape and characteristics of architectural practice in SA - the first study of its kind in Australia.

Welcome to 2016! We hope this year brings good news for architects and for South Australia!

An update on the Australian Government’s response to the “Harper Review” into competition policy.

News from ACA - SA.

An overview of activities in South Australia this month.

John Held updates members on ACA - SA activities and discussions.

ACA - SA President John Held provides an update for May 2015.

An update on all things ACA - SA.

This month’s activities in South Australia.

The August monthly update from ACA - SA.

Architects and Builders, the July ACA - SA Round Table, canvassed a broad range of matters. Ian Hore outlines the key discussion points.

It is always busy at ACA - SA. John Held outlines recent events and activities.

John Held, ACA - SA President, reports on the previous year and on plans for the future.

How can financiers, architects and lawyers find better and fairer ways of working together? Ian Hore reports on a recent ACA - SA round table discussion.

The year 2013 marked 50 years since the inauguration of the organisation that became ACA - SA. David Hassell outlines the aims and major activities of the organisation over its first half-century.

John Held provides an overview of SA activities in 2013.