WA Update – NRF, Local Government Reform and More
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.
National Registration Framework
We have formed a sub-committee to formalise our response to the proposed National Registration Framework. Our focus is communicating the value of architecture to State Government, in particular the relevant decision makers in the Ministry, and to the media. We are in the process of engaging an experienced Government adviser who will help us to craft our approach.
We are also committed to raising the awareness of the NRF amongst the general population of architects in WA. We have a suspicion that many architects don’t know this is happening or what it will mean for their businesses and our profession in the future. Our response aligns with the position put forward by the ACA at a national level but with a WA focus. Committee member Emily Van Eyk is leading this project.
Local Government Reform
We have been working with our colleagues at the AIA on a response to Local Government Reform published by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. The ACA and the Institute welcomed the opportunity to comment on the Reform and the impact of process change on architects and the built environment more broadly.
In brief, we supported the general aims of the Reform – particularly regarding achieving greater consistency, transparency, rigour, and improved processes at a local government level. However, we made the following recommendations:
- That the recognition of First Nations people extends to include objectives and aims like those outlined in ‘Foundations for a Stronger Tomorrow – State Infrastructure Strategy’.
- That climate change be addressed within the reforms as a matter of urgency, and in acknowledgement of local government’s role as asset owners and broad social responsibility to lead by example in the communities it represents.
- That the procurement of architectural services be addressed as a key priority. The AIA has developed a set of guidelines for EOIs and RFTs, which they believe will greatly enhance procurement processes.
2022 Welcome Breakfast Recap
We launched the year with a casual breakfast at Little Way in Nedlands. The event was a great opportunity to catch up with colleagues and our sponsors before borders open and the year ramps up! Thank you to our members who were able to attend.
Up-Coming Events – Succession Planning with Macquarie Bank, Friday 1 April
We’re partnering with our South Australian colleagues to tackle this weighty topic. Succession planning is an uncomfortable part of owning a business and not enough practices have solid succession plans in place. Too often, the subject is treated as the ‘elephant in the room’ to avoid conversations that blur personal and business interests.
The WA and SA branches invite you to join us online for an in-depth look at the succession planning process with Macquarie Bank’s, Daniel Bolt. Using Macquarie’s circular model of succession, Daniel will take us through everything from identifying potential successors, valuation, obtaining finance, and future roles in the business.
This event is essential for anyone looking to avoid the stress that comes with unplanned exits and wanting to create a pathway for emerging directors within your practice. Book your spot here.