Short Form Client Architect Agreement
The ACA Short Form Client Architect Agreement (CAA) is a fair and balanced model contract for use on small- to medium-sized projects, written to assist ACA members with their client contracts. The last update was December 2023.
In July 2026, the ACA introduced a Victoria-specific version of the ACA Client Architect Agreement to help ACA members comply with the Victorian Government’s Architects Regulations 2026 and the ARBV’s related updates to the Victorian Architects Code of Professional Conduct.
Both Agreements are ACA member resources and part of the ACA Business Toolbox. They have been developed by Christopher Larcos of Larcos Law on behalf of the ACA.
Members can log in below to download the contracts and cover letters, which are available as editable Word files and as PDF reference copies. We have also provided an explanatory note and user guide for the Victoria version of the Agreement.
If you are not a member, find out more about the benefits of ACA membership or join here.
Short Form Client Architect Agreement – Victoria (last update July 2026)
This Client Architect Agreement for Victorian registered practices addresses the new requirements for agreements and steps to follow before conducting work for a client. The ACA is engaged in ongoing consultation with the ARBV to assist with development of clear guidelines and FAQ documents to improve both practical interpretation of, and compliance with, updated requirements.
Short Form Client Architect Agreement (last update December 2023)
The Short Form Client Architect Agreement (CAA) provides a simple and clear template. The original CAA was last updated in December 2023 to reflect changes to the unfair contracts legislation that came into effect on 10 November 2023. A review was carried out by Christopher Larcos on behalf of the ACA, and amendments made. The template was approved by insurers Planned Cover.
The Agreement was also reviewed in 2021 in response to feedback relating to clauses covering releases, indemnities, and limitations on liability.
“We’re really happy with the new ACA Short Form Client/Architect Agreement as we find it quick to execute and easy for our clients to understand. We even had one client comment that the contract was the best he’d seen in the industry.”– Architecture Republic
NOTE: Member Only Content
Disclaimer
The standard terms in the ACA Short Form Architect Client Agreements are intended to be used without amendment. Accordingly, anyone intending to amend them should seek legal advice.
Architects may wish to reformat the contract terms by changing logos, fonts, and so on. However, it is important that they retain the clause numbering and indent structure in the contract terms.