The VIC/TAS Committee has welcomed two new members this year – Emily Gilfillan and Brendan Shannon – and has farewelled longstanding Committee member Kel Greenway. Issues of interest to the group include fair and sustainable fees, building reform, communicating the value of architecture, and maintaining relevance in a rapidly changing industry.

Would you like to offer your employees access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) but can’t justify the cost? The ACA is delighted to offer a high-quality EAP to our members at a fraction of the cost. The EAP service is available from TELUS Health, a trusted mental health and wellbeing partner to over 15,000 organisations around the world.

The ACA WA Committee has been working hard on advocacy in recent years, with President Kukame McPierzie and Vice-President Kate Fitzgerald leading the charge. Here we introduce the complete WA team of committed practice owners and directors keen to make a difference. Learn more about their interests and goals with the ACA.

Advocacy and mental wellbeing have been key priorities for the VIC/TAS branch committee for the first half of 2024, with advocacy work around the cladding crisis and building reform, and a recent AMWF face to face event in Melbourne. The Committee also farewells a longstanding ACA contributor and welcomes two new members to the committee.

The NSW/ACT Committee has recently expanded, with new members adding to the existing team of committed, enthusiastic volunteers. Issues of interest to the group include fees and tendering, architectural education, communicating the value of architecture, and solving the profession’s big challenges.

The NSW/ACT branch committee has continued working hard in 2024 to deliver informative CPD presentations as well as useful resources to the membership. Discussion within committee meetings have addressed issues such as mental wellbeing, university engagement, reconciliation and regional practice.

The first half of 2024 was jam-packed in WA, with social and informative events, critical advocacy, and a welcome to three new committee members – Fred Chaney, Kahla Murphy and Fernando Faugno. Sadly, we said goodbye to three retiring committee stalwarts – Malcolm Jones, David Gulland and Andrew Rogerson.

The ACA QLD/NT Committee introduces new President Brett Hudson, Vice-President Adam Ferrier, and an enthusiastic, committed team of practice owners and directors keen to make a difference for members in Queensland and the Northern Territory. Learn more about their roles, areas of interest, and goals with the ACA.

The ACA SA Committee has a changing of the guard, with new President Mario Dreosti, Vice-President Catherine Startari, and a team of talented, enthusiastic volunteers keen to make a difference in South Australia with advocacy, events, networking and learning. Learn more about their roles and goals with the ACA.

The QLD/NT Committee has been busy with events in recent months, with two site tours, two AMWF events and our first Business of Small Practice (BoSP) get together in Brisbane. The Committee has also initiated an exciting new advocacy plan of action and welcomes a new President and a number of new branch committee members. 

Advocacy, First Nations engagement and learning, and a strong events program have been a focus for the SA branch committee in the first half of 2024. Sascha Byrne and the SA committee review the highlights.

Our branch committees recently said goodbye to a number of departing committee members – people who had volunteered their time, energy and commitment to build resources, plan events, share knowledge and advocate for their colleagues in the industry. We thank each and every committee member for all their hard work and dedication.

The ACA is actively working to amplify its voice on issues relevant to its members, the business of architecture, and practitioners’ wellbeing. We are intensifying our advocacy initiatives as we continue positioning ourselves as a vital link between the architecture profession and policymakers. 

New engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs will be prohibited in Australia from 1 July 2024. Commonwealth, State and Territory Work Health and Safety (WHS) Ministers have agreed to a number of key implementation matters, with some adopting six-month transitional periods.

Reconciliation Week (27 May–3 June 2024) is an opportunity to engage with First Nations culture, truth-telling and continuous living history. Each year, Reconciliation Australia collates a list of public events in each state and territory. It’s a fantastic resource for practices keen to celebrate and acknowledge the week. We encourage members to register for a local event and get involved.

The recent BES•Tville event in Townsville was a huge success, attracting a diverse audience of 195 people, all eager to hear from speakers Andrew Maynard and Adam Haddow, and facilitator Helen Norrie. Chief organiser Zammi Rohan from Counterpoint Architecture discusses the foundation and objectives of BES•Tville, future plans, and the importance of connection and action in the regions.

Congratulations to ACA member practice Feather & Lawry Design, who recently won the 2024 Client Choice Award for Best Architecture Firm <$30M. Here, the Toowoomba-based regional design team share some insights into the Client Choice process and what the national achievement means for the practice.

In an era where corporate accountability is paramount, practices increasingly recognise the importance of integrating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) into their operations. Alicia Brown from New Doors has developed a new guide on CSR for architects, highlighting key details for six CSR programs.

After several months of committed advocacy and campaigning led by ACA WA Vice-President Kate Fitzgerald, the ACA WA is delighted to share that the once-deferred Medium Density Code has been reintroduced. This will help ensure the supply of well-designed housing in suburbs and infill precincts for the State.

There’s a lot more to an Employee Assistance Program than meets the eye. ACA members who have signed up for our discounted member offer have found a wealth of resources and assistance, including an advice line for managers who need to discuss a tricky workplace issue, help an employee in trouble, or are seeking advice on general workplace stress.

Our Reading and Listening List is back to see you through long days by the pool! It’s eclectic and representative of the diverse interests of our committee members and staff at the ACA. We hope you enjoy dipping into our recommendations as you relax this summer.

Take the member survey to help guide ACA activities in 2024. The survey will take no more than five minutes and the results will be invaluable as our branch committees and national team map out priorities for the year.

The ACA University Engagement Working Group aims to connect with the tertiary education sector and promote the value of architectural practice and business to university students. Topics of interest to the group include models of internships, the sharing of business-related tools and resources, and education around the Business of Architecture.

The ACA’s new RAP Working Group was developed to support the ACA membership with their learning around First Nations knowledge and engagement, with a focus on Reconciliation Action Plans. Here we provide a summary of the Group’s aims and a brief interview with the RAP Working Group Chair Stephen Pearse.

The WA branch committee finished off a busy year with an end-of-year celebration at Lawson Flats. It was great to see so many of our members, sponsors and industry colleagues at our event. It feels like the festive season is well and truly here! Here’s a snapshot of what the WA branch committee has been up to in 2023.

The Vic/Tas branch has had a rewarding year of advocacy and events, and continues to lead the ongoing work of the industrial relations sub-committee and development of the ACA business toolbox. Here’s a snapshot of priorities, activity and action in 2023!

The ACA’s new Regional Practice Working Group (RPWG) aims to connect and support architectural practices in diverse geographical areas across the country. Here we provide a summary of the Group’s aims and a brief interview with the RPWG Chair Michel Greenhalgh about the key challenges of regional practice, what needs to change, and aspirations for the new working group.

The NSW/ACT branch committee has continued working hard in 2023 to deliver informative CPD presentations as well as useful resources to the membership. Mental wellbeing, university engagement, reconciliation and regional practice have also been a strong focus.

Advocacy, reconciliation, recruitment and registration have been a strong focus for the SA branch committee in 2023, with highlights including the annual Business of Design Lunch, a panel discussion on Reconciliation Action Plans, and a practice managers lunch on recruiting top talent.

Advocacy and an interesting mix of informative events kept the branch committee busy and engaged with the profession in 2023. Highlights include the lunch forum and interview with Queensland MP Elizabeth Watson-Brown, the popular annual Risky Business event and the always fun Trivia Night!

On 30 October 2023, the Fair Work Commission approved the ACA’s application to amend the Architects Award to reflect the new National Standard of Competency for Architects. See the detailed explainer from Emma Avey of Fair Work Lawyers and download the updated Architects Award today!

The ACA is pleased to join Consult Australia’s End of Year Tender campaign, which advocates for a pause in new procurement activities over the Christmas break. Consult Australia CEO Jonathan Cartledge explains about the initiative’s genesis, aims and progress to date, and the prioritisation of mental health in the construction industry. 

The Association of Consulting Architects Australia will hold its 2023 Annual General Meeting online on Monday 27 November 2023 at 4.30pm AEST to approve the 2023 General Purpose Financial Report.

At the ACA, we will continue to listen, learn, engage in respectful conversations, educate ourselves and share knowledge where we can. We recommend viewing the webinar ‘Reconciliation after the Referendum’ by Reconciliation Australia and downloading a valuable list of actions that organisations can take.

The QLD/NT branch committee has had a busy month, with their popular Risky Business event and a lunch forum with architect and current Federal MP Elizabeth Watson-Brown. Leanne Williams provides a recap.

The latest Parlour Census Report: Gender & Diversity in Australian Architecture is a massive undertaking. It tracks 20 years of progress – some fast, some slow. The ACA is proud to support this important research. Download the full or summary reports, or read the condensed key findings here.

Last month, Michael Lewarne from Unmeasured delivered an informative face-to-face presentation about mindful leadership and its impacts in practice for an enthusiastic Sydney audience. Jennifer Crawford provides a recap.

The NSW/ACT Committee is delighted to announce a new member benefit, a discounted rate on the newly developed Tools™ app, which summarises the NCC into simple, interactive graphics, helping architects specify how to build properly, save time and avoid mistakes and rework.

The ACA recently made a submission to the ANZSCO Comprehensive Review to request a new sub-category title of ‘Graduate of Architecture’. This important addition will assist in creating a more accurate picture of the profession today with more meaningful predictions of future numbers for workforce planning.

The ACA team was delighted to head to Hobart recently for a two-day strategic meeting followed by a series of meetings with leaders in the Tasmanian architectural community and a member lunch. A highlight of the trip was an informative and very moving presentation on The Voice by Rodney Dillon of the PM’s First Nations Referendum Working Group.

The ACA is immensely proud to announce that our first Reconciliation Action Plan has been endorsed by Reconciliation Australia. Our RAP sets out a vision for a more equitable profession and places reconciliation at the heart of what we do.

The ACA QLD/NT President Gilda Donegan was delighted to make it over to Darwin in late July for the Good Habits Seminar, a highly informative session with speakers from Planned Cover. The QLD/NT Committee was also pleased to host their annual Corporate & National Partners Breakfast.

The ACA VIC/TAS branch committee was delighted to work with the University of Melbourne to host the recent event, Victoria’s Future Cities, Suburbs and Building Reforms, held at the Melbourne School of Design on 20 July. The event was well-attended and raised important issues regarding the need for urgent building reform in Victoria.

Ron Edgar was a long-term and valued member of the ACA, including as a member of the NSW Committee and a period as treasurer. Former NSW/ACT President Steve Kennedy and Ingrid Pearson FRAIA reflect on the life and work of Ron Edgar, who recently passed away.

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 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).

Do you want to learn more about what your clients think of your practice and the service it provides? Enter the Client Choice Awards for 2024 and receive a special report of invaluable client feedback.

A shockingly high percentage of workers in the global construction industry are victims of modern slavery. How can Australian architects address the impacts of modern slavery on projects? Take the survey to help Curtin University researchers learn more.

The ACA was delighted to host the first Business of Small Practice (BoSP) event in Sydney last month, featuring keynote speaker Warwick Mihaly and a fantastic panel who generously shared their experiences and advice. Jennifer Crawford provides a recap.

The ACA invites you to renew your membership so you can continue receiving the member-only benefits, assist us in our important work, and join others in the ACA community to come together as a profession. 

It’s been a busy six months for the NSW/ACT branch committee, who have been working hard to deliver informative and relevant CPD presentations and networking opportunities as well as discounted webinars and resources, and advocacy for its members. A recent highlight was the first Business of Small Practice (BoSP) event in Sydney.

The VIC/TAS Committee leads the ACA’s work on IR and Award-related activities as well as playing a key role in developing the member-only tools and resources. The following update features the latest in IR and resources, as well as advocacy and upcoming events.

In the last six months, the QLD/NT branch committee have been busy organising interesting and topical online events, providing networking opportunities, site tours and panel discussions, and advocating on the issues that matter to the profession.

The ACA, in association with Moss Architectural Learning, is pleased to support the ‘Gap Filler 24’ training course, with a 10% discount on offer for all members. The next course will commence on 6 March 2024

In 2023, the SA branch committee has focused on advocacy, mental wellbeing and events, with a welcome return of BoSP, a waterproofing presentation and a well-attended Sustainability roundtable.

Through ACA’s continued partnership with Niche Media, we are delighted to offer ACA members a complimentary annual digital subscription to the Architectural Review (AR) Magazine.

The Wellbeing of Architects project has released its major report on a series of focus groups conducted between May and June 2022 with nearly 70 people working in the architecture profession in Australia. The focus groups identified a wide range of complex issues and discussed solutions and ways forward.

Griffith University researcher Sebastian Smith unpacks the results of the recent Graduate Employability Survey, outlining interesting perspectives on Work-Integrated Learning and Student/Graduate Employability.

The Australian Construction Industry Forum May 2024 Forecasts were launched in late May after an enormous amount of work by the ACIF forecasters, and two meetings of the Construction Forecasting Council to provide guidance and oversight. ACA members have free access to the ACIF Customised Forecasts Dashboard as a member-only benefit.

The ACA’s BoSP, or Business of Small Practice Forum, was created in Western Australia in 2018, providing the opportunity for small practice owners to meet up, listen to experts, share knowledge and learn from each other. BoSP founder Kate Fitzgerald shares her insights about the series genesis, motivations and plans for the future.

Improving mental wellbeing in practice is fundamental to the future of the profession. The ACA is proud to once again support the Wellbeing of Architects research project and encourages all to participate in this important follow-up survey on work-related wellbeing. So, take part, share your experiences, and assist with this important research.

The ACA is thrilled to announce that we have submitted the first draft of our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan. This project has given our organisation the opportunity to deeply reflect on our purpose and ability to influence positive change.

Charmaine Kai, a valued member of the QLD/NT Committee and Director of 8i Architects, discusses the practice’s recent achievement – winning the Client Choice Awards Best Architecture Firm <$30M for 2023. Charmaine shares some insights on the process of collecting client feedback and what the key takeaways have been for the practice.

The ACA is delighted to announce a new partnership with respected HR specialists Catalina Consultants to provide human resources support services to members. ACA member practices are eligible for a 15-minute consultation each year on a range of matters related to people management and workplace culture.

The ACA’s National Executive Committee caught up face to face in Melbourne recently for two days of discussion, workshops, planning and guest industry speakers. WA President Kukame McPierzie highlights the key takeaways.

The ACA’s Employee Assistance Program Trial has attracted strong interest, with 25 practices signing up so far. It’s not too late for ACA members to express their interest. You can register an EOI today!

The ACA National Salary Survey for 2023 is open for another year! Check your inboxes and please participate in this important industry research, an invaluable way to contribute to the health of the profession. The survey closes on 7 April 2023.

The ACA National Salary Survey is back for 2023, providing important data on architectural salaries across Australia. For more information, read our Frequently Asked Questions.

What skills and behaviours do you look for in your new graduates? Take the Graduate Employability Survey today to help researchers learn more about Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and its relationship to graduate employability.

As we embark on another year in the business of architecture, the ACA seeks feedback from its members on their priorities and preferences for 2023. What topics would you like us to cover? What tools, resources and assistance would you find most useful for your practice? Take our five-minute survey today!

ACA members are invited to join the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Trial, which delivers a high-quality EAP at a fraction of the cost. The EAP service is available from LifeWorks, a trusted mental health and wellbeing partner to over 15,000 organisations around the world.

Would you like to offer your employees access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) but can’t justify the cost? The ACA is delighted to offer a high-quality EAP to our members at a fraction of the cost. The EAP service is available from TELUS Health, a trusted mental health and wellbeing partner to over 15,000 organisations around the world.

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.

Australian summers, with their long country drives, plane rides and days at the beach, provide the perfect opportunity to read or listen to a great podcast. To get you in the holiday mood, we’ve compiled a list of reading material, courses and podcasts recommended by ACA staff and committee members around the country. Enjoy!

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 Association of Consulting Architects Australia will hold its 2022 Annual General Meeting online on Monday 12 December 2022 at 4.30pm AEST to approve the 2022 General Purpose Financial Report.

Congratulations to R Architecture, who won the Client Choice Awards earlier this year. R Architecture is a Melbourne-based small practice and an ACA member. Here, Director Gaurav Rajadhyax offers some sound advice on providing the best client experience.

La Trobe University researchers seek volunteer research participants for a short online study on ‘Supporting Employees with Long COVID’.

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

‘Disrupting the System: Preventing and responding to workplace sexual harassment’, a report from the Champions of Change Coalition, aims to shift the way we understand and respond to sexual harassment. The document provides a comprehensive practical guide for organisations and workplaces.

The Green Building Council of Australia has published Specifying for Green Star Buildings using NATSPEC, an indispensable resource for designing sustainability into a project.

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!

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.

A QUT research study seeks architects to participate in a 15-minute survey on ECI infrastructure projects in Australia. Please take the time to participate in this much-needed research from QUT.

The Australian Construction Industry Forum November 2022 Forecast is available from Tuesday 15 November. ACA members have free access to the ACIF Customised Forecasts Dashboard as a member-only benefit.

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!

It is an election year for all ACA branches! Nominations for election to the ACA committees open on 7 April and close on 21 April 2022.

The ACA is delighted to continue the Stepping Up series for 2023, a collaborative event and editorial series with Parlour and the Architecture Group of the Champions of Change. See CPD offerings from 2022 and the full event calendar for 2023.

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.

The ABCB has announced the release of two NCC CPD courses on plumbing, one on heated water services and the other on how to comply with the PCA.

Congratulations to NATSPEC CEO Richard Choy, who has been awarded the 2022 Australian Institute of Architects Queensland Chapter President’s Prize by Dr Michael Lavery. 

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

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.

The ACA seeks feedback from members to help inform our work and plans for 2022. Please take the time to fill out our quick questionnaire.

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

Congratulations to the ACA’s NSW/ACT President and Vice-President of ACA National, Agi Sterling for receiving the honour of a Life Fellowship with the Australian Institute of Architects. Well-deserved and well done!

We are big fans of sharing knowledge and learning through conversation. Emma Brain has compiled a list of some of her favourite podcasts to get stuck into once the end-of-year stress has passed.

CEO Angelina Pillai reviews the ACA’s work and priorities for the year, from connection and collegiality to advocacy, partnerships, timely information and good communication.

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.

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.

AICF has released its Construction Industry Forecast for November 2021. We have published a summary here. ACA members have free access to the full forecasts, available on the ACIF Customised Forecasts Dashboard.

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.

Robert Goodliffe, Managing Partner from ClarkeHopkinsClarke Architects, retired in September 2021 after 40 years as a designer, practice leader and influential advocate for ethical business and climate action. The ACA celebrates the milestone and wishes Robert well in all future endeavours.

The ABCB is offering a one-hour NCC CPD course on the principles of bushfire behaviour and how it affects building design.

The ACA is delighted to partner with the Client Choice Awards 2022, which has an exclusive discount offer for ACA members. Entrants gain valuable insights and client feedback. The deadline for entries is 30 November.

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.

Improving mental wellbeing in practice is fundamental to the future of the profession. After the recent successful survey of practitioners in July, the Monash-led Wellbeing of Architects survey is now open for students. Please share this survey widely.

The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has published an Employer Guide on COVID-19 Vaccinations and the Workplace, which aims to assist employers to navigate the vaccine rollout in Australia. 

Great news! The recent Architects & Wellbeing survey had a huge response, doubling its target, with more than 2100 participants.

NATSPEC has released a new reference specification for Class 2 buildings. The reference specification, which was developed in cooperation with the NSW Government, is a nationally applicable quality control tool that sets out the minimum requirements for Class 2 buildings.

The latest Deltek Clarity Industry report explores how architecture and engineering (A&E) firms in Asia Pacific (APAC) are reaching their digital goals, and identifies common barriers to tech adoption.

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.

Charmaine Kai, ACA member of the Expert Reference Group on the NSCA, provides an update on the key developments.

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.

CEO Angelina Pillai summarises ACA activity and priorities for the last year, outlining our seven strategic objectives and what they mean for members, ACA committees, and the broader profession. 

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 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 3 June, the ACA hosted a webinar with TheFulcrum.Agency on the importance of Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs). Emma Brain provides a recap.

The Australian Construction Industry Forum (ACIF) has released its Construction Industry Forecast for May 2021. We have published a summary here. ACA members have free access to the full forecasts, available on the ACIF Customised Forecasts Dashboard.

Is your practice involved in Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programs for university students? Share your views by taking a short 15-minute survey!

Did you graduate from the University of Adelaide’s School of Architecture and Built Environment between 1975 and 1999? If so, it’s time to celebrate at your reunion on Friday 6 August 2021.

After extensive consultation, the ACA’s VIC/TAS Committee has submitted its response to the Victorian government’s Framework for Reform building review. Our executive summary outlines the ACA’s key priorities and the full submission is also available for download for further background and discussion of the issues.

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 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.

Verity Campbell offers a recap of her recent ArchiPitch event, which featured seven architectural practices pitching big ideas to a panel of social housing experts.

Sydney-based ArtMade Architects has won the Client’s Choice Award for the Best Architecture Firm for the second year running.

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.

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 Diversity Council of Australia (DCA) and Our Watch have released a report into domestic and family violence, and the impacts this has on the workplace. The resource uses evidence to tackle some common myths about domestic and family violence, and provides tools and resources for Australian businesses to become leaders in prevention. 

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 ACA welcomes the automatic mutual recognition scheme, which serves as a sound framework to create national harmonisation across the architectural labour force. However, several issues need to be addressed.

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

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

The ACA is delighted to extend a special half-year membership offer. Head to our membership portal to find out what’s on offer.

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

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.

Entries for the Built and Natural Environment Consulting category of the Client Choice Awards are closing on 15 December.

Since its establishment in July 2019, Architects Declare Australia has continued to advocate and educate, with a guide to going carbon neutral and a number of webinars on topics related to biodiversity and sustainability.

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

The ACA sadly advises that founding member of the Association in Melbourne and longtime Chairman of the National Industrial Relations Committee Struan Gilfillan passed away peacefully on 20 October 2020.

If you have ever wanted to contribute, lead, support or just be part of the conversations of the peak body that represents you and your practice, now is the time to nominate as an ACA Branch committee member!

Kate Doyle will step down as CEO of the AACA in March 2021 after six years in the role. The ACA has greatly valued her contribution and wishes her well in her future endeavours.

Australia’s ageing population means that the principles of universal design in residential design and construction are increasingly important. NATSPEC recognises the importance of universal design with the release of three new TECHnotes.

Is there someone exceptional within the architecture profession who you would like to nominate for an Australian Honour? The Order of Australia recognises Australians for outstanding service or exceptional achievement in a diverse range of fields and areas of endeavours, including architecture.

The ACA is delighted to announce the appointment of Fair Work Lawyers (FWL) as our Industrial Relations Consultants, with FWL Partner Tom Earls providing principal advisory services.

The ACA is delighted to announce a new partnership with Management for Design to provide financial and business management support services to members.

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 ACA – Victoria/Tasmania provides further clarification of COVID-19 Stage 4 restrictions, with advice on construction site access, worker permits, COVID Safe Plans and ongoing advocacy.

On Monday 3 August, the Premier of Victoria Daniel Andrews announced Stage 4 Restrictions, which apply to the Melbourne area and do impact architectural practices.

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.

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

It is an election year for all ACA branches in 2020, and we invite members to get involved.

The AACA has announced that the 2020 National Examination Paper will now be delivered remotely via candidates’ individual devices with online live supervision.

On 3 June 2020, the NSW Design and Building Practitioners Bill 2019 successfully passed through Parliament.

The ACA is proud to support the new research project Architectural Work Cultures: professional identity, education and wellbeing, led by Professor Naomi Stead of Monash University.

Given the evolving Coronavirus situation across Australia, the AACA has postponed the APE National Examination Paper currently scheduled for 21 April until 18 August.

Applications for the AACA’s 2020 National Program of Assessment (NPrA) close 28 February 2020.

The Australian Construction Industry Forum has released its Construction Industry Forecast for November 2019.

Do you know what your clients really think of your practice and the service it provides? Enter the Client Choice Awards for Best Architecture Firm and receive a special report of invaluable client feedback on everything from quality and innovation to responsiveness and value for money.

Hundreds of Australian architects have signed up to the Architects Declare movement, which aims to raise awareness of the climate crisis and the urgent need for action in the built environment.

Ben Channon's new book Happy by Design: A Guide to Architecture and Wellbeing explores the ways that buildings and spaces can impact on our mental health and wellbeing.

Do you want your practice to be visible to SA State Government procurement staff? Then sign up to the SA Product Register.

ACA - WA President Malcolm Jones gives an overview of the WA cladding audit, issues around ACP compliance, and some early next steps.

ACA members now have free access to the ACIF Customised Forecasts Dashboard, with the May forecast available from 14 May.

ACA members will now have free access to the ACIF Customised Forecasts Dashboard.

No more chasing around to find a JP to witness your Stat Dec. Registered architects are now authorised witnesses.

The ACA is delighted to announce the appointment of Angelina Pillai as Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Consulting Architects.

NATSPEC’s National Construction Product Register is a new tool to ensure quality control and reduce the number of non-conforming products in the Australian built environment. Emma Green from NATSPEC Communications tells us more about how it works.

The final report of the inquiry into non-conforming building products was tabled by the Senate Economics References Committee in December 2018. Subtitled “the need for a coherent and robust regulatory regime”, it aims to strengthen accountability and compliance in relation to building products.

Do you have something to say about the way practitioners can be involved in architectural education? The AACA is looking for a mix of architects to take part in focus groups nationwide.

The Australian Construction Industry Forum has released its new ACIF Forecasts, with growth expected in non-residential building and infrastructure construction, but the decline in residential building expected to continue.

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

The Australian Human Rights Commission has released the findings of its national survey on sexual harassment in Australian workplaces.

The Queensland BIM Taskforce has released its findings from its recent BIM Survey.

The ACA is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Built Environment Channel (BEC), a free digital screen network available to practices big and small.

Announcing improved access to the ACA Member Toolbox.

The ACA is delighted to announce a new agreement with Moray and Agnew Lawyers. This provides members with 20 minutes of pro bono legal advice from Moray and Agnew’s experienced commercial team.

ACA - Qld/NT and the Australian Institute of Architects Qld have joined forces to create a BIM Taskforce to help architects and practices become BIM capable.

The National Executive Committee met recently in Adelaide. It was an opportunity to reflect on the activity of the past five years, and to chart a path for the next five. ACA National President Kieran Wong reports.

The ACA - SA Practice Administrators Group meets regularly to share knowledge, views and experiences. New members welcome.

Kieran Wong, ACA National President Elect, introduces himself and plans for the future of the ACA.

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.

Catherine Baudet's decades of advocacy for women in architecture has been recognised with the Paula Whitman Prize for Leadership Gender Equity.

The AACA has introduced two fast track pathways to registration for experienced practitioners.

A new report aims to explore new futures for architecture and new ways of measuring the contribition already made by the industry.

The ACA BUSINESS TOOLBOX provides members with the essential resources to effectively and easily operate their businesses.

The Victorian Building Authority is contacting building practitioners - including architects - to identify the possible use of non-compliant building material in the construction of buildings in Victoria.

The ACA has achieved an enormous amount since it released a new Strategic Plan, in 2012. National President, Steve Kennedy, outlines the achievements to date.

The Parlour Guides to Equitable Practice aim to help Australian architecture move towards a more equitable profession; one that offers opportunity for all and is better positioned to meet contemporary challenges.

ACIF and the APCC have a number of projects underway relating to procurement, project team integration and BIM.