The Architects Award
All architectural businesses must understand their obligations under the Architects Award. The following is a short overview of the award, the ACA’s role in negotiating it, and the assistance we provide to members regarding the Award.
The ACA is the designated employer organisation for architects under Fair Work Australia. In this capacity we represent architectural employers in negotiating all changes to the Architects Award, and in representing members on related industrial matters. We encourage all architectural employers to familiarise themselves with the award and their obligations under it.
Note: New rates of pay are applicable from 1 July 2021, which factor in the 2.5% increase in the minimum wage.
Note: The Architects Award and other Awards relevant to architectural practice currently include Schedule X – Additional Measures During the COVID-19 Pandemic. These measures are applicable until 31 December 2021.
What is the Architects Award?
The Architects Award is part of the Modern Awards system, which took effect from January 2010. The Award should be read in conjunction with the National Employment Standards (NES). Together the Award and the NES contain the minimum conditions of employment for employees covered by the Architects Award.
The Architects Award is organised into the following sections:
- Application and Operation (Part 1)
- Consultation and Dispute Resolution (Part 2)
- Types of Employment and Termination of Employment (Part 3)
- Minimum Wages and Related Matters (Part 4)
- Hours of Work and Related Matters (Part 5)
- Leave and Public Holidays (Part 6)
Download the Architects Award – 2020.
See here for an overview of the changes included in the Architects Award 2020.
The Award includes a detailed description of whom it covers (section 1.4). Employers should note that the Architects Award includes minimum wages for students of architecture and graduates, as well as registered architects.
The Award states that employers must ensure that copies of this award and the NES are available to all employees to whom they apply, either on a noticeboard that is conveniently located at or near the workplace or through electronic means, whichever makes them more accessible.
What other awards are relevant to architectural businesses?
Remember that non-architect employees within an architectural practice come under a range of other awards. These include the following awards, which are all effective from 1 November 2020:
- Clerks Award – 2020
- Graphics Arts Award – 2020
- Manufacturing Award (Drafting staff) – 2020
- Miscellaneous Award (Interior Designers) – 2020
How does the ACA help?
The ACA provides regular updates on changes to the minimum wage and the impact of these on the Architects Award and other relevant awards.
The Industrial Awards section of this website provides information and advice on a range of matters relating to the Architects Award.
The ACA represents the interests of employer architects via the ACA Industrial Relations Committee.