The Business of Architecture*

Welcome to the new ACA Practice Desktop App – designed for easy desktop access to the ACA Business Concierge, which provides quick answers to your business and employment questions, drawing on ACA member-only resources, tools and guidance. ACA members can download the ACA Practice Desk App today!

In April 2026, the ACA launched a new member benefit: a combined PI and GL insurance initiative with specialist broker Coverforce. Three ACA members share their experiences, highlighting the transparent, thorough process, responsive support, and Coverforce’s strong understanding of the challenges facing practices today.

The ACA, in partnership with specialist broker Coverforce, is pleased to introduce a new combined Professional Indemnity (PI) and General Liability (GL) insurance initiative, designed to provide eligible member practices with a more consistent, transparent and sustainable approach to insurance.

Immediate past National President John Held highlights two critical priorities related to AI in architecture practice: the need for deep understanding and guidance of AI use within practice workflows; and the need for advocacy for better procurement methods, business conditions and acknowledgement of IP ownership at a time of rapid change.

The Australian Government’s initiative to make selected Australian Standards freely accessible has taken another step forward, with Standards Australia providing an update on implementation. The ACA welcomes this update and will continue advocating for improved access on behalf of members.

As we navigate a rapidly changing professional landscape, what are the most important lessons learned? Matthew Tence reflects on a career in practice management, from leadership, culture and continuous improvement to the opportunities presented by emerging technologies such as AI.

These Special Conditions, prepared by Christopher Larcos of Larcos Law, are intended for use with the ABIC BW 2018 C Commercial Basic Works Contract where the work is residential building work carried out in New South Wales, and the contract price exceeds $20,000. ACA members can access and download the Special Conditions.

With the 2032 Olympics on the horizon, Brisbane is in the midst of an unprecedented period of change. But when the Games are over, what remains? Join the ACA QLD/NT for a timely panel discussion with leaders in urban planning, transport, housing and city design, as we explore how to create a lasting Olympic legacy for Brisbane and its residents. Book now!

While Professional Indemnity insurance is well understood within the architecture profession, it only addresses one aspect of a practice’s risk. Coverforce examines the role of Management Liability insurance, why architects should consider it, and the types of claims it is designed to cover.

At the ACA we are here to help you understand your industrial relations obligations. This FAQ article, prepared by Fair Work Lawyers for ACA members and updated in July 2026, is designed to answer your commonly asked questions. It covers the Award system, minimum rates, ordinary hours of work, probation periods, annual leave and casual employees.

The ACA and Consult Australia are pleased to offer ACA members access to Consult Australia’s highly regarded Future Leader Program at the member early bird rate, as part of our ongoing collaboration under the ACA–Consult Australia Memorandum of Understanding.

Client feedback is one of the most powerful tools for building a stronger practice, helping you refine your services, strengthen relationships and win new work. Enter the 2027 Client Choice Awards for Best Architecture Firm to gain access to invaluable feedback from your clients alongside competitive benchmarking insights. Entries are now open until 7 August.

The ACA Salary Calculator provides practices with a clear methodology for determining appropriate award-compliant salaries. The calculator assists members to ensure they are operating legally and fairly, and helps practices to develop properly informed plans for their business. The Salary Calculator has been updated with the 2026–2027 pay rates. Access the updated Salary Calculator today!

The Federal Industrial Award pay rates have been updated and are applicable from 1 July 2026. ACA members can log in to access award pay rates relevant to architectural practice today!

It’s critical that all architectural businesses understand their obligations under the Architects Award. The update of the Architects Award and other Awards relevant to architectural practice incorporate all changes up to and including 1 July 2026, including new pay rates for the 2026–2027 financial year. Download today!

The ACA is committed to supporting practices of all sizes on their reconciliation journey, particularly smaller practices that may not have the resources to develop their own RAPs. By making participation more accessible, we can strengthen the profession’s collective impact. Emma Brain outlines recent changes to the RAP program and offers advice to practices considering joining.

Act now! Help protect the future of architectural registration in Victoria by signing the current Victorian Legislative Assembly petition. Sign it today!

The Australian Construction Industry Forum (ACIF) has come together with the Australasian Procurement and Construction Council (APCC) to conduct a collaborative, industry-led examination of productivity barriers in government construction procurement. Take the survey today!

Yesterday’s Federal Budget commitment to make Australian Standards freely accessible is a genuine win for the profession, and one we have advocated for over many years. This move will be a game-changer (we don’t say that very often!) for the architectural profession and the construction industry more broadly.

The fifth iteration of the ACA Architects’ Time/Cost Calculator Guide (TCCG) was launched in February 2026, with 47 updates and improvements. The TCCG helps practices manage project time and costs, combining practice-specific data with reliable calculations to support accurate, tailored fee proposals for all building types, service levels and procurement methods.

We are pleased to share the ACA’s new membership brochure, a colourful, easy-to-read booklet that outlines the many ways the ACA supports and advocates for Australian architecture practices. It highlights our role as a trusted business advisor, with benefits including practical tools, contracts and advisories, regular business-focused updates and webinars, and advocacy and research.