Talking Regional Practice
What does it take to run a successful architecture practice in regional Australia? Watch this insightful CPD webinar exploring the opportunities, challenges and realities of building a resilient and rewarding small practice beyond the city.
Originally held 30 March 2026.
PURCHASE ON DEMAND
Facilitated by Michel Greenhalgh, Chair of the ACA Regional Working Group and Director at MCG Architects (Bunbury, WA), this session brings together practice leaders from across Australia. Our speakers share firsthand experiences of establishing their studios, building strong client bases, and growing meaningful work within regional communities.
Hear from Mike Sneyd (EKD Architects, Broome/Kununurra WA), Kristina Soggee (Livingstone Studio, Clare SA) and Mark Kennedy (Counterpoint, Townsville Qld) as they reflect on the decisions that shaped their practices and the strategies that have supported long‑term viability.
The conversation delves into current challenges – including workforce attraction and retention, navigating distance and risk, and responding to shifting market conditions. Panelists also look ahead, discussing sustainability, succession and exit planning, and the lessons learned along the way.
This webinar offers an honest, practical discussion for architects considering regional practice or already working within it, providing valuable insights into building a resilient and rewarding regional studio.
COST & BOOKING
Members $30 incl GST
Non-members $60 incl GST
*One ticket per person. *All ticket holders will receive the recording registration link after the webinar.
Reserve your ticket below or head straight to the booking site.
For any questions, please contact webinars@aca.org.au.
CPD
1 hour – 1 formal CPD point
Learning outcomes – An essential roundup of practical insights into establishing, growing and sustaining an architecture practice in regional Australia, including managing clients, workforce challenges, financial viability, risk, succession and exit planning.
Units of Competency and Performance Criteria (NSCA 2021) – Practice Management & Professional Conduct – PC 1, PC 2, PC 3
APBSA & ABWA Core Area – Practice Management
CPD questions will be provided with a link to upload your answers for issue of a CPD certificate of completion. Please keep your receipt, completed questions and certificate for your CPD records.
MEET THE SPEAKERS
Mike Sneyd, Principal Architect and Director at EKD Architecture – Mike is uniquely placed in the Australian architecture profession as one of the most isolated architects in the country. Working between three offices in Kununurra, Broome and Perth, EKD is involved in advocacy for the architecture profession while working with remote communities in creating sustainable, community-centric spaces that tell a story of place, people, and progress.
Kristina Soggee, Director, Livingstone Studio – When Kristina’s long-time employer closed up shop and retired in 2023, it left her at a crossroads. Unwilling to say goodbye to the diverse work, charming location and regional community she loved, she decided to establish her own practice. Three years in, Kristina shares some of the challenges, joys and ambitions of establishing her small regional studio.
Mark Kennedy, Co-director, Counterpoint Architecture – Mark is a Townsville born and raised North Queenslander and co-director of Counterpoint Architecture. After working in Brisbane and New Zealand, he returned north to establish a small practice. Today, Counterpoint is a growing, collaborative studio of 14 working across multiple locations and project types. Mark is a committed contributor to architecture in North Queensland and is passionate about revitalising Townsville’s urban centre.
Michel Greenhalgh, Director, MCG Architects – Michel brings extensive experience in regional practice and a strong commitment to thoughtful, context-responsive design. With a long-standing career delivering projects across WA, his work is known for expressive forms that respond to the natural environment. A licensed commercial pilot, Michel also supports regional and remote communities across the state, regularly travelling to project sites and contributing to collaboration and service delivery in remote contexts.