WA Branch Update EOY 2024
The WA branch committee wrapped up another vibrant year with a wonderful end-of-year celebration at Lums wine bar in Subiaco. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and made the event so memorable. Your presence and ongoing support energise our efforts to represent and advocate for our profession.
Here’s a look back at our accomplishments this year and what lies ahead.
ADVOCACY
In 2024, the WA Committee welcomed new members, Fernando Faugno, Kahla Murphy and Fred Chaney. We also thanked our outgoing committee members for their ongoing dedication and contributions to the architectural profession. Thank you to Andrew Rogerson, David Gulland and previous WA President, Malcolm Jones for your years of service to the ACA Committee.
The new Committee undertook strategic planning in September, spending a weekend mapping out the strategic priorities and advocacy focus for the next term. A key takeaway from this weekend was to keep focus on the things that make the ACA useful and valuable to members: the provision of relevant, timely and practical advice, resources and information supported by targeted advocacy efforts for our members.
Our collaboration with the Built Environment Reference Group (BERG) continues to be an essential platform for representing industry priorities. This group, comprising the ACA, AIA, PIA, UDIA, Property Council, AILA, Engineers Australia and the HIA, meets monthly to discuss key issues and advocate for policies that improve the built environment in WA. Together, we address topics such as planning policy, density and the integration of design excellence into urban development.
Committee members Michel Greenhalgh and Kali Passmore have been working closely with WALGA to refine processes and contracting arrangements for architectural services procurement. This collaboration ensures that the architectural profession is well-represented and that regional and urban projects benefit from expert input.
These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to supporting architects, influencing policy, and strengthening the role of architecture in shaping WA’s built environment.
CONNECTION
2024 has been a year filled with engaging and informative events, reflecting our commitment to fostering connection and professional growth across the industry.
We began with a breakfast event attended by members and colleagues from across the built environment, offering an invaluable opportunity to network and discuss shared goals.
Later in the year, the Business of Small Practice (BoSP) event in Fremantle attracted over 65 attendees and highlighted key advocacy and reform efforts around medium-density housing. This event underscored the importance of collaboration between architects, builders and developers to address housing demands, and showcased the value of architectural expertise in shaping residential design codes.
Another highlight was our Business of Design event featuring Government Architect Emma Williamson, who delivered a provocative and inspiring speech. Emma challenged us to reflect on how we, as a profession, can remain useful, relevant and forward-thinking in the face of evolving industry demands. Her address sparked meaningful dialogue and reinforced the importance of adaptability and leadership within architecture.
These events exemplify the type of gatherings we aim to deliver – insightful, conversational and highly relevant to the profession.
WHAT IS NEXT?
We are excited to build on this year’s momentum by offering an even more dynamic mix of in-person and webinar events in the year ahead.
The ACA will kick off 2025 with an annual breakfast in February, a perfect opportunity to connect, network and discuss key issues shaping the profession. Shortly after, we will host a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) event, providing valuable insights on First Nations procurement, Aboriginal participation and tender submissions.
We look forward to seeing you at these events and many more in the year ahead!
THANKS
We couldn’t do the work that we do without the generous support of our branch sponsors. Thank you to:
- PLATINUM: Rondo
- GOLD: Lysaght, Armstrong Ceilings, Armstrong Floorings
- SILVER: Winnings Appliances and Qasair.
Our WA Committee includes volunteers from various practice scales and locations, including regional WA. We always welcome feedback and engagement! Thanks to:
- Kukame McPierzie, WA President + National Vice-President (Woods Bagot)
- Kate Fitzgerald, Vice-President (Whispering Smith)
- Janine Marsh, Treasurer (Doepel Marsh)
- Kali Passmore, Secretary (Gresley Abas)
- Felice Burrows, Sponsorship (Architects&Co)
- Michel Greenhalgh, Regional Practice Working Group (MCG Architects)
- Kahla Murphy (Hassell)
- Fred Chaney, Reconciliation Action Working Group (TRCB)
- Fernando Faugno (COX)
- Emily Van Eyk, University Engagement Working Group (Mt Eyk)
- Julia Armstrong, Executive Officer
For more information on our Committee members, their roles and goals with the ACA, you can Meet the Committee here.