The Queensland Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects calls on all parties in the upcoming Queensland state election to build a Queensland to last into the future by prioritising four key objectives: improving design quality, delivering climate resilience, increasing architectural capacity within government, and supporting local workforce capacity.
“We are facing unprecedented challenges: rapid population growth, a systemic housing crisis, overburdened community infrastructure, and the escalating impacts of climate change. With just eight years until the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, the built environment must be prepared to meet the future needs of Queenslanders.” said Anna Svensdotter Queensland Executive Director of the Australian Institute of Architects.
The Institute applauds the major investments made in housing, transport, and infrastructure and urges all parties to commit to further long-term, significant investment.
“What we build now, the quality of our designs, and the care taken in execution are vital to the well-being of all Queenslanders, not just today but well into the future.” said Russell Hall Queensland Chapter President of the Australian Institute of Architects.
Architects play a pivotal role in delivering safe, life-enhancing, resilient, and high-quality communities.
“It is through thoughtful and innovative design that Queensland can achieve sustainable growth, climate adaptation, and a built environment that enhances the quality of life for every resident.” Russell Hall said.
Key Election Priorities:
1. Improving Design Quality in State Government Projects
By partnering with architects, the government can fast-track housing solutions while ensuring comfort, climate responsiveness, and long-term value. Embedding QDesign principles in all state projects will set a benchmark for quality that guarantees enduring and well-designed infrastructure for Queensland communities.
2. Delivering Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability
The Institute advocates for the full adoption of the National Construction Code (NCC) 2025 and embedding climate-resilient design in all projects. Aligning government procurement with net-zero goals is crucial to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating the long-term impacts of climate change. Well-designed, resilient infrastructure will protect communities, reduce costs, and enhance quality of life.
3. Increasing Architectural Capacity Within Government
Architects have the expertise to deliver well-designed solutions across transport, housing, health, and education. The Institute proposes establishing an Olympic Design Coordination Unit to ensure the Brisbane 2032 Games leaves a lasting, sustainable legacy, while also expanding in-house architectural roles to drive the highest design standards across all government sectors.
4. Supporting Local Workforce Capacity
Supporting architecture students, particularly from regional and First Nations communities, is key to building a skilled local workforce. Providing living stipends and post-graduate employment subsidies will ensure that future architects have the opportunity to contribute to Queensland’s built environment, particularly in regional areas where the need is greatest.
Russell Hall highlighted the long-term benefits of these priorities for all Queenslanders:
“The built environment is critical to our community’s health, safety, and prosperity. By investing in high-quality, climate-responsive design, we ensure a more resilient, liveable, and sustainable Queensland for future generations.”
The 2024 Queensland Election Priorities document is available for download here. For further information, visit the Queensland Chapter Election website.
About the Australian Institute of Architects
The Australian Institute of Architects is the peak body for the architectural profession and works to improve the quality of our built environment by promoting quality, responsible and sustainable design.
For media inquiries, please contact Rhiannon Dow, Communications Coordinator, Australian Institute of Architects
Phone: +61 7 3828 4102 | Email: rhiannon.dow@architecture.com.au
