Online CPD

Queensland University of Technology, Peter Coaldrake Education Precinct | Wilson Architects and Henning Larsen Architects, Architects in Association | QLD | Traditional Land Owners: Turrbal and Yugara people of Mianjin | Photographer: Christopher Frederick Jones

Formal CPD

The Institute has a range of on demand formal CPD courses available for you to undertake at your own pace for a period of 12 months – SCROLL DOWN TO SEE THE FULL CATALOGUE

Featured On Demand Courses

Country Culture Community Audience 2024. Picture by Nina Hamilton

Country Culture Community On Demand Presentations

On Demand formal CPD presentations from the Institute’s landmark Country, Culture, Community event which drew together Indigenous and non-Indigenous architects, designers, artists and thinkers from across Australia on muwinina Country, nipaluna (Hobart) over three days in February 2024.

Craig Kerslake’s presentation (1 Formal point) discusses the concept of “belonging to country” in both Indigenous and architectural contexts. He shares personal experiences and cultural perspectives on how architecture can embody Indigenous values, particularly through connecting with and respecting the natural environment. 

Rufus Black and Catherine Anderson explore the intersection of architecture, sustainability, and Indigenous knowledge, focusing on how Western architectural practices can be reimagined through a relational ontology inspired by Indigenous perspectives.

New Courses Added:

Building Defects, Professional Standards and Compliance Victoria CPD (1 Formal point) Isabel Legge (ARBV), Joe Zita (Director Approval Systems) and architect and former Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu will address core professional obligations.  

Ground Matters On Demand Bundle | 5 Formal CPD points (also available as individual sessions)
Offering a dynamic exploration of architecture’s engagement with ground and context. These presentations from the Ground Matters Student Architectural Conference 2024 feature architects, educators, and practitioners, who foster deep reflections on cultural, ecological, and material sensitivities within architectural practice.

The bundle offers attendees access to individual talks by Ground Matters 2024 presenters, as well as bonus videos of the presenters in conversation with each other. These bonus conversations are not available for individual Ground Matters On Demand courses.

Baracco + Wright, Taylor and Hinds (1 Point)

Andrew Steen, Collaboratorio (1 Point)

Kerstin Thompson, Timothy Hill (1 Point)

Sarah Lynn Rees, Eleena Jamil (1 Point)

AI in Architecture (2 Formal points) On Demand webinar – AI is already changing the landscape of design and construction – from concept development to documentation, practice management, and fabrication – raising technological, commercial and ethical questions. What defines AI? How can it be leveraged to push the boundaries of creativity and efficiency? What are the risks, the opportunities, the impacts and incentives of generative AI? And what does this mean for creators and consumers, for the architecture profession and architecture?

Embodied Carbon Curriculum (5 Formal points (paid course contains content and an assessment component))

Embodied Carbon Curriculum (5 Informal points – free course contains the same content but no assessment component)  Read more about these course here

D & C Contracts (NSW) Lessons Learnt (On Demand Webinar) (2 points) – Hear from a range of professionals involved in the organisation and application of Design & Construct contracts including architects, clients, builders and lawyers. In this session we will focus on why these contracts are used, the benefits to all parties, what architects need to be aware of and review the lessons learnt from panellists’ experience See More

Creating a Pipeline: How to Win more Work 2024 (on Demand Webinar) (1 Formal point) – In this program presented by Lindy Johnson, Lindy Johnson Creative, and MC’d by Monique Woodward, WOWOWA, we cover how to undertake successful business development, connect with more clients, and create a pipeline of work. Also featuring a bonus Q&A session with questions posed by architects to help you win more work. 

Creating a Pipeline: How to Win more Work 2024 INFORMAL (1 Informal point)

For What It’s Worth: Low Carbon Aluminium (1 point) – Materials & Embodied Carbon Leaders’ Alliance (MECLA) was established in 2021 and brings together leaders across industry and government supply chains to drive the reduction of embodied carbon in the building and construction industry. 

A range of free informal courses are also available to view here.

ONLINE FORMAL CPD on demand

bushfire

As we experience more worrying bushfire seasons across Australia each year, we need to prepare for greater fire intensity, frequency and widespread house losses as a result of climate change. Nigel Bell of ECOdesign Architects highlights some of the most outstanding projects exemplifying recent bushfire resilient design. 

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Ecology and Impact explores the impact of mega-fires in Australia and how the industry can adapt to support fire suppression in the future; natural landscape and bushfire ecology and bushfire attack from a building’s perspective leading to an outline of BAL-ratings. See More

Bushfire Design investigates proven weak-points prone to building ignition and what this means for architects, planners and landscapers; reflections on a client’s perspective and a conversation exploring the cost of rebuilding after bushfires. See more

Planning, Building and Landscape explores the bushfire regulations and national controls (codes and standards), their requirements and contradictions. BAL zones are considered, including common problems and possible solutions. This session also provides an insight into measures that can be taken within garden and property boundary zones to create defensible space and the way in which the surrounding terrain informs a bushfire response strategy. See more

In this presentation Jenny Donovan explores how architects can best help communities recover from disasters, how it is different to normal circumstances and the personal qualities required to truly make a difference.

This session is part of the Institute’s response to the unprecedented bush fires of 2019/2020. It is also applicable to other situations, disasters or extreme events causing trauma.

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Architects engage at a very personal level with people looking to rebuild in the future after disasters. This session considers the effects of trauma on the mind. Clinical Psychologist and trauma expert Rob Gordon outlines the characteristics of continuing stress applicable to situations, disasters or extreme events causing trauma

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design

This program introduces the key principles behind accessible design. Our presenters address the structure of the regulatory framework for accessibility of the Australian built environment and unpack important design concepts for accessibility. See More

Using a real case study of a large apartment complex, Presenter Ross Taylor will show how the leaks originate well before the waterproofer turns up with a bucket of goo and a 20-year warranty. The second half of the seminar will be devoted to workshopping the analysis of an actual high rise apartment design. Ross will provide insights into the key issues to look for in defect prevention and the documentation necessary to manage your practices’ risk.

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Colour has always played a large role in human society and in the spaces we live and interact. We are constantly absorbing environments and their colours, and our brains process these colours as messages, drawing conclusions and setting expectations, however objective or subjective. When colour is used in architecture and interior design, it means much more than a simple aesthetic choice. See More

Urban anxieties and cultural differences are examined through the microcosm of an Alice Springs architectural practice. Alice Springs has a suburban fringe but this is not where its edges lie. Knives, exit plans, a swamp and a science fiction-posed paradigm offer insight and a framework for review of recent public and commercial projects from the Susan Dugdale and Associates team, in particular the CBD Revitalisation, an urban renewal project. See More

The fundamentals that underpin BIM and Sustainability will be explored by highlighting when and why environmental analysis should be undertaken and what tools are available within BIM software packages. This seminar will explain what each analysis is, how it works and why it’s important. It will also explore non-BIM tools and other considerations beyond BIM that designers should be mindful of when creating truly sustainable designs.

This session is suitable for both the novice and expert in BIM and similarly so in sustainability.

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How is BIM is being used to improve collaboration and communication between architects, engineers, and contractors? Can BIM reduce costs and improve efficiency? In this session we explore the latest advances in BIM software and technology, with approaches to skilling-up your team on BIM and leveraging tech advancements on highly integrated projects.

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This seminar will explore how to be sure that the building products you specify for a project are compliant and how to reduce your risk when choosing products.

Kristin Brookfield from the HIA will discuss the APCC Procurement of Construction Products: A Guide to Achieving Compliance and offer guidance on how to determine whether a building product is suitable to use. See More

Dr Marisha McAuliffe will expand on the role of colour in architecture and design, highlighting how it is used to influence behavioural response in the built environment. 

The seminar will explore metamerism and the role of natural and artificial light, as well as practical application, context, perception, and physiological response to colour in architectural environments. In this context, Marisha will address in detail the three essential considerations when working with colour in architecture and design; Who? What? Where? See More

In this two-part series we showcase single dwelling and multi-residential projects from across Australia and representing architecture in a range of climate zones that have achieved high NatHERS ratings.   See More

In this session we showcase single dwelling projects from across Australia and representing architecture in a range of climate zones that have achieved high NatHERS ratings. See More

In this session we showcase multi-residential projects from across Australia and representing architecture in a range of climate zones that have achieved high NatHERS ratings. See More

This course has been designed to assist practices looking to move from one design software to another, and in particular, those who are making the transition to a BIM system.  Our panel will talk through everything you need to consider when making a change, addressing both the big picture and the small details, as well as looking at what options might best suit your practice beyond the Revit vs Archicad debate.

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What is permanent, and what is the real lifecycle of a building? Nazrine Seraji discusses Design as Agency – architecture as a living agent using historical examples and her own projects to critically review the many approaches to urban planning from small towns to super cities and explores the relationship between public realm amenity and built form that is necessary for sustainable urbanism. See More

Moshe Safdie explains how the combination of densification, congestion and the new dominant typologies have brought about a dramatic deterioration of the public realm. He details how the single-use, multi-level mall disconnects from its surroundings and siphons energy off the traditional streets and piazzas, with the latter also severely affected by congestion and traffic. Moshe uses projects from his practice (such as the Habitat 67 complex) as case studies to show how they have tackled the challenge of mixed-use complexes throughout Asia, with the objective of restoring the public realm, befitting our times, culture and economy.

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What if our health became the basis for judging every building and every public space? What if each of us—every person, everywhere—asked, “Does this place cause health? How does it make me feel?” 
The architects involved in this session have design expectations that serve to optimise wellbeing and inspire. This session will explore health facilities that make people better and educational buildings that encourage learning and “teach” students. Case studies from Canada and Australia will be presented with clear examples of the benefits of human-centric design.

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This is the first module of the formal CPD series “In Harm’s Way”. The series includes three modules: 1. Urban Water and Resilient Cities. 2. Cyclone Resilience – Holistic Approach 3. Heat Resilient Design Duration of each module – 2 hrs. – 2 Formal CPD points.

Climate change puts additional pressure on the already overburdened “urban water systems” in Australian cities. Extreme hydro-meteorological events become more intense and frequent and impact water quality, supply security and resource management. This module explores a topic from a holistic perspective, incorporating insights from environmental science, architecture, engineering landscape architecture and urban planning. The presentations and a discussion panel aim to enhance the understanding of 
1. Urban water metabolism evaluation plays a critical role in resilient and water sensitive urban design interventions.
2. Principles of innovative and water-sensitive design in Queensland context.
3. Strategies for sustainable water-sensitive design governance.     See More

Through a selection of his resort projects and his design of the Thailand Pavilion in the Venice Biennale Architectural Exhibition in 2014, ‘Lek’ Mathar Bunnag shares the significant factors that inform, influence and shape his work. People, nature, cultural heritage and cosmic forces are all keys to his work, as well as the concept of architecture as art – sculpture, painting, poetry, dance and music are all part of the architecture.

Discover Bunnag’s interpretation of cultural heritage in relation to the individual and as a source of inspiration, not definition. Bunnag discusses how the intangible informs the tangible and the purpose of architecture – to provide serenity and joy. 

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This seminar explores the in-between spaces often found in the architecture of Moreau Kusunoki; between two buildings there is a space open to possibilities, where exchange and life happens. The appropriation of this in-between space by the users is the sign of a building’s success.

Nicolas Moreau and Hiroko Kusunoki talk about the history and philosophy of their practice and showcase their 1st prize-winning entry in the Guggenheim Helsinki Design Competition. They discuss the intersection of cultures and how to design cultural public spaces accordingly – as people and their culture ultimately complete the architecture. See More

In this presentation, Thomas Fisher talks about the architectural impact of the media revolution and the importance of architecture in our new economy and social function. Thomas explores concepts such as “Third Wave Thinking” and the “Third Industrial Revolution” and how the design and architectural community can find new ways to meet people’s needs.  See More

In biological terms, the edge between two ecosystems is called an ecotone. In urban habitats, architects and urban planners must understand the importance of this edge as an ecosystem itself.  This seminar will explore these concepts through several examples of recent works by OAB that confront the circumstances of working at the edge – not only a physical edge but most importantly an intellectual one.

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Aesthetics, technicalities, collaboration and fundamentals of Passive House design. This event will explain the essentials of Passive House design and how aesthetics are integrated into the design. It will discuss a range of typologies and dissect the design processes and challenges from each of the building types.

The focus will be on educational, high rise and commercial projects, not residential. Finally, this session will address the technicalities that come with Passive House design and outline what a successful project looks like.

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This course will introduce the concept of regenerative design, take a deep dive into the principles of the field, and provide the tools to incorporate regenerative design into practice. Initially held as a workshop in South Australia this course is presented by two leading experts in the emerging field of regenerative design. See More

Jeremy Till addresses the theme of risk through his work as Head of Central Saint Martins in London, widely considered one of the world’s leading centres for art and design education, and Pro-Vice-Chancellor, University of the Arts London. Jeremy addresses risk-averse authorities and regulations with humour and insight.

Case studies include the pioneering building, 9 Stock Orchard Street, winner of the RIBA sustainability prize with Sarah Wigglesworth Architects. See More

Real or perceived edges help us to locate ourselves in space and place, and define the boundaries of those places across the scales, from regional and urban boundaries to neighbourhoods, buildings, and even our bodies. Sarah Manning’s Space agency is a design and research practice that sits at the edge of different disciplines – urban design, architecture, product and information design.

The practice considers the work they do as the human interface to the built environment. Through this interface, the practice helps people to better read their environment and adds a narrative layer onto architecture. Space agency finds that it is at the edge that we are able to push the boundaries of what architecture is and to expand the boundaries of our knowledge and practice.

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Ethics

Ethics and ethical practices interact with everything the architect does—from the seemingly trivial through to the seriously life threatening.
Moral rights are also incredibly important for the architect—in terms of respecting the work of others as well as protecting your own work, and for providing a meaningful and valuable built environment legacy for future generations.

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FIRST NATIONS

This course explores the concept of a diverse people, a great place and how and where we create spaces to come together. Through many perspectives and lenses, following the stories of acclaimed  artists, architects, designers, singers and poets, we will look at the stories that bind us to place and remind us of what is important to reclaim and repair as we step into the footsteps of the future. 

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Craig Kerslake discusses the concept of “belonging to country” in both Indigenous and architectural contexts. He shares personal experiences and cultural perspectives on how architecture can embody Indigenous values, particularly through connecting with and respecting the natural environment. Key themes include relationality, sustainability, the importance of embedding cultural knowledge early in the design process, and the idea of “custodial architecture,” which supports community and nature. The presentation highlights how Indigenous approaches to design can lead to more harmonious and responsible architectural practices. See More

This talk from Rufus Black and Catherine Anderson explores the intersection of architecture, sustainability, and Indigenous knowledge, focusing on how Western architectural practices can be reimagined through a relational ontology inspired by Indigenous perspectives. The speakers discuss the unsustainable nature of current architectural and economic models, which are rooted in a colonial mindset of resource extraction and waste production. They argue that engaging with Indigenous concepts of “Designing on Country” can offer valuable insights for creating more sustainable and respectful architectural practices. The talk emphasizes the importance of materials, making, and meaning in architecture, advocating for a shift towards local, regenerative materials, bioclimatic design, and the recovery of traditional building knowledge. See More

Developed in consultation with the First Nations Advisory Working Group and Cultural Reference Panel this course is an introduction to Indigenous knowledge, values, cultural practices, and histories. It covers each aspect of the NSCA 2021 competencies relating to Country and First Nations peoples. Our program explores connecting, engaging and designing with Country; through a series of case studies we explore approaches to embedding cultural expressions in design and planning from the concept design phase through project delivery to completion and beyond.

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In this lecture from the Ground Matters Student Conference 2024, Andrew Steen interrogates the relation of building materials to the history, present, and future of a place – specifically, bricks and bluestone to Launceston, lutruwita (Tasmania). Conventional perspectives on tradition and ideologies based on western philosophies and academic scaffolds will be interrogated, and new grounds for practice sketched out.

Christina and Martino of Collaboratorio, discuss their environmentally conscious architecture using traditional materials. In their talk they go back to basics ,reintroducing traditional building materials to serve contemporary needs. Focusing on minimally processed, natural resources like unburned clay, developing “Luonnonbetoni,” a sustainable concrete alternative. See more

n this talk from the Ground Matters Student Conference 2024, Mat Hinds and Poppy Taylor discuss Tasmania’s spatial and communal memory, highlighting the experiential pressure arising from the island’s unique context. It explores the themes of history, meaning, and experience, particularly through the Krakani Lumi – Wukalina project with the palawa community.

Following is a talk from Louise Wright and Mauro Baracco. They question how architecture can transform its environmental impact by focusing on land use and regeneration. They discuss concepts of remaking a relationship with the ground, as well as research, teaching, speculation and practice approaches of reuse and removal of built form and environmental repair from metropolitan to 1:1 scale. See More

This bundle offers attendees access to individual talks by Ground Matters 2024 presenters, as well as bonus videos of the presenters in conversation with each other. These bonus conversations are not available for individual Ground Matters On Demand courses.

Offering a dynamic exploration of architecture’s engagement with ground and context. These presentations from the Ground Matters Student Architectural Conference feature prominent architects, educators, and practitioners, who aim to foster deep reflections on cultural, ecological, and material sensitivities within architectural practice. See more

In this lecture from Ground Matters Student Conference 2024, Kerstin Thompson discusses how ground matters have been foundational to KTA’s practice. The ways in which our architecture critically relates to Australia’s diverse landscapes – and to disciplinary, theoretical and historical groundings – will be explored in Kerstin’s reflection upon a number of projects.

Timothy Hill speaks on architecture’s profound ability to evoke powerful responses. It can heighten our awareness of the intrinsic aspects of habitation and the landscape. Creating an appropriate ‘ground’ for occupation is crucial, reshaping the site’s boundaries and topography to enrich the experience and mitigate any surrounding challenges. This approach can include crafting miniaturized landscapes and urban elements, tapping into collective memories and associations. By prioritising emotional resonance, spaces become memorable and enduring, sustaining qualities over time such as light, weather response, and spatial dynamics. Through careful attention to detail, materiality, and spatial relationships, architecture can continuously engage and provoke genuine perceptions and responses. See More

This innovative two-part online course explores the proposition of introducing Indigenous Ecosystem Corridors and Nodes into urban developments, with an aim of mitigating and combatting the ecological damage inflicted upon the earth by millennia of human settlement and population growth. This program will unpack the benefits and challenges attendant to this enterprise, with contributions from a range of scholars and leading practitioners.  See More

In this talk from Ground Matters Student Conference, Sarah Lynn Rees discusses how nothing is more timeless than Country.
“Neighbourhood character” is a phrase often used to describe the “look and feel of an area” and why this should be preserved. As a design driver however, the term often acts as a device to reproduce watered down versions of colonial architecture. We live in a country that has incredibly deep geological, ecological and cultural stories. These stories form a more relevant and fundamental starting point than the echoing of architectural styles that have, since colonial times, erased the identity of place. It is our job to bring these stories back into view, for and with Country.  

Sarah will discuss these ideas through a selection of three projects including Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity at the University of Melbourne, Melbourne Arboretum and Western Sydney University Indigenous Centre of Excellence. These projects represent design of varying scale and typology, from interiors to pavilion to precinct.

Eleena Jamil explores About Making: The cultural continuity and environmental awareness embodied in the architectural-making process, which involves local materials and methods, can offer valuable insights into reimagining modern building practices. A selection of projects presented will demonstrate an engagement with the design and building process and the development of a deep understanding of natural and human resources rooted in context. See More

This program addresses non-Indigenous designers who are seeking a more ethical practice on Aboriginal Country, in relationship with First Peoples, picking up on the non-Indigenous responsibility to engage. It asks how do we engage with First People’s ontologies of Country without continuing the violence and erasure that is our colonial legacy?

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Reconciliation between non-Indigenous and First Nations peoples of Australia is one of the most urgent challenges facing the architectural profession. Architecture is fundamentally connected to Country, and architects require competency in navigating the relationship with Indigenous lands and peoples as part of everyday practice. This CPD event hosts three speakers who offer extensive insight from the Indigenous perspective and provide guidance for practitioners on how to approach this competency in a culturally respectful way. The overarching question posed is: how can architects honour Country through design, while bringing the client along for the reconciliation journey?

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Developed in consultation with the Institute’s First Nations Advisory Working Group and Cultural Reference Panel this course covers each aspect of the NSCA 2021 competencies relating to Country and First Nations peoples.

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Heritage

This intensive six-hour course is designed to equip you with a most comprehensive understanding of best practice in adaptive reuse design. Presented by an unrivaled panel of industry leaders this event represents the standard for Formal CPD in this area.

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In this session, award winning conservation architect, urban designer and author Elizabeth Vines explores heritage conservation frameworks in an Australian and international context, providing an overview of key tools, standards, targets and the ethics and attitudes underpinning them. Following this, Yugumbir man and principal architect for the Government Architect NSW Dillon Kombumerri presents illuminating knowledge and perspectives for reading and respecting Indigenous cultural heritage, helping to build attendees’ First Nations cultural literacy in line with new NSCA performance criteria.

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Architect and senior heritage consultant Suzanne Zahra will walk attendees through the what, when and how to of Conservation Management Plans, Heritage Impact Assessment/Statement of Heritage Effects, and the appeal process. Attendees will then move into their nominated break out group for expert-led discussions focusing on the legislative, regulatory and policy landscapes specific to state/territory jurisdictions.

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In this third of our Heritage HIIT Sessions, we will examine the stuff of conservation – traditional materials and trades. Covering both 19th and 20th Century building typologies this session is a mix of the pragmatic and theoretical, assisting you to bridge the gap between the generalist and specialist aspects of heritage practice from initial analysis to documentation and delivery on site.

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This seminar looks at a series of in-progress and recently completed case studies from across Australia to demonstrate how real world refurbishment and adaptive reuse projects for places of heritage significance have addressed issues of climate change, sustainability, equity of access, fire code compliance and seismic considerations. Our presenters include Melissa Hughes, George Phillips, Mat Hinds, David Brown, and Dimmity Walker.

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In this installment our panel of award winning architects and consultants takes us on a journey through four heritage projects representing a range of periods and typologies.

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Come with us on a journey through the range of considerations when recording and documenting buildings and sites. This program will address traditional methods of measuring and recording buildings including site measuring, drawing and photographs, equipment required, tips for difficult areas, the most appropriate drawing scales, and examples of traditional measured drawings.

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In this practical and pragmatic program we will drill-down into exactly how architects can collaborate and work with their heritage specialists across all stages of the design process.

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Join us to explore the cultural significance of the former West’s Furniture Showroom, its bold modernist design by Dr Karl Langer in 1953, and its recent conservation and adaptive reuse by Riddell Architecture. The conservation project was awarded a Gold Medal in the National Trust of Queensland Awards and the Australian Institute of Architects’ National Heritage Award.

This session opens a forthcoming series hosted by the Institute’s Queensland Chapter exploring the modernist legacy and adaptive revival of this fascinating building. 

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In this session, Michael Lavery discusses the development of the Project Brief for the new RAIA Queensland Headquarters project with the primary author of that document, Mark Jones. Further, Fiona Gardiner, Michael Lavery, and Mark Jones discuss the criteria for selecting a design team for this project. Read more

Innovation

Featuring current research from the University of Newcastle and Deakin University this session is an overview of a variety of issues related to innovation in design. 

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In this presentation, Thomas Fisher talks about the architectural impact of the media revolution and the importance of architecture in our new economy and social function. Thomas explores concepts such as “Third Wave Thinking” and the “Third Industrial Revolution” and how the design and architectural community can find new ways to meet people’s needs. See More

Architects operate in a complex, changing environment. This is not likely to diminish with technological disruption, client expectations, work practices and professional standards constantly evolving. To be successful, it isn’t enough to survive such changes. Instead, you need to be equipped to thrive through them.

This session will provide you with insights, tools and techniques so you can thrive in today’s changing environment and ultimately maintain high levels of agility, effectiveness, productivity and employee morale.

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legislative

The Building Commission NSW is the state’s first ever dedicated building regulator. The Commission brings together teams from NSW Fair Trading and the Office of the Building Commissioner into one, to provide an integrated and consistent approach to ensuring confidence in residential building quality in NSW. This Institute of Architects event provides the opportunity to hear directly from the NSW Building Commissioner and his team. Read more

This seminar will explore how to be sure that the building products you specify for a project are compliant and how to reduce your risk when choosing products.

Kristin Brookfield from the HIA will discuss the APCC Procurement of Construction Products: A Guide to Achieving Compliance and offer guidance on how to determine whether a building product is suitable to use. See More

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Isabel Legge (ARBV),Joe Zita (Director Approval Systems) and architect and former Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu will address core professional obligations. See more

With this course we will guide you through the intent, obligations and process of new compliance documentation requirements for practitioners engaging with Class 2 builds in New South Wales. Our course responds to changes introduced on 1 July 2021 by the NSW Office of Fair Trading under the Design and Building Practitioners Act, which seek both to restore consumer confidence in apartment construction, and to safeguard practitioners by improving compliance documentation and declaration practices. See more

The Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 and Regulation will effect major change for the construction industry, with significant implications for architects practicing in NSW. Co-hosted by the NSW Architects Registration Board, this session provides practitioners with critical information direct from Building Commissioner David Chandler, Director of the Office of the Building Commissioner Matt Press, Registrar Dr Kirsten Orr and key Institute members who have been involved in the development of the Act and Regulation.

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Co-hosted by Consult Australia and Engineers Australia, this panel brings together the Office of the Building Commissioner with representatives from key industry groups including architects, engineers and other consultants to walk through a sample design and construction project, explaining processes, roles and responsibilities under the new system. 

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Co-hosted by Engineers Australia, this course provides practitioners with critical information direct from Building Commissioner David Chandler, Digital Director of Construct NSW Yin Man, the Institute’s NSW Chapter President Laura Cockburn, and Engineers Australia’s Karlie Collis.

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Join the Building Commissioner, David Chandler to hear how far we have come as of June 2022, and where we are going next with the NSW Building Reforms under the Design and Building Act and Regulation.  Matthew Whitton and Matt provide strategic updates and offer their authoritative insights into the next steps moving forward. In addition, this program includes reporting from the Audit Review team on what they have found in the process of auditing Design Practitioners. This program represents crucial learnings for all Registered Architects regarding these important reforms. See more

In this presentation our presenters will address the legal implications for architects coming out of the Lacrosse judgement and the legacy of its use in Australia. See More

The Security of Payment Legislation is some of the most critical legislation across the building and construction industry in Australia. The legislation impacts on nearly all projects across the country.
 
So, what’s the best way to navigate this terrain and manage claims under the legislation?

Hear seasoned lawyers discuss the fundamentals of security of payment legislation applicable in the Australian Capital Territory. See more

The Security of Payment Legislation is some of the most critical legislation across the building and construction industry in Australia. The legislation impacts on nearly all projects across the country.

So, what’s the best way to navigate this terrain and manage claims under the legislation?

Hear seasoned lawyers discuss the fundamentals of security of payment legislation applicable in New South Wales.  See More

The Security of Payment Legislation is some of the most critical legislation across the building and construction industry in Australia. The legislation impacts on nearly all projects across the country.
 
So, what’s the best way to navigate this terrain and manage claims under the legislation?

Hear seasoned lawyers discuss the fundamentals of security of payment legislation applicable in NT.  See More

The Security of Payment Legislation is some of the most critical legislation across the building and construction industry in Australia. The legislation impacts on nearly all projects across the country.

So, what’s the best way to navigate this terrain and manage claims under the legislation?

Hear seasoned lawyers discuss the fundamentals of security of payment legislation applicable in Queensland.  See More

The Security of Payment Legislation is some of the most critical legislation across the building and construction industry in Australia. The legislation impacts on nearly all projects across the country.
 
So, what’s the best way to navigate this terrain and manage claims under the legislation?

Hear seasoned lawyers discuss the fundamentals of security of payment legislation applicable in South Australia.  See More

The Security of Payment Legislation is some of the most critical legislation across the building and construction industry in Australia. The legislation impacts on nearly all projects across the country.
 
So, what’s the best way to navigate this terrain and manage claims under the legislation?

Hear seasoned lawyers discuss the fundamentals of security of payment legislation applicable in Tasmania.  See More

The Security of Payment Legislation is some of the most critical legislation across the building and construction industry in Australia. The legislation impacts on nearly all projects across the country.
 
So, what’s the best way to navigate this terrain and manage claims under the legislation?

Hear seasoned lawyers discuss the fundamentals of security of payment legislation applicable in Victoria.  See More

The Security of Payment Legislation is some of the most critical legislation across the building and construction industry in Australia. The legislation impacts on nearly all projects across the country.

So, what’s the best way to navigate this terrain and manage claims under the legislation?

Hear seasoned lawyers discuss the fundamentals of security of payment legislation applicable in Western Australia.  See More

Marketing & Promotion

Changing consumer behaviour means that 70% of transactions now begin with an online search. This course helps architects understand how their various marketing activities should be optimised for success in this new eCommerce landscape.  Based on Sounds Like Design’s six-channel system, which helps practices raise awareness about the value of architecture and generate new business this session includes access to a free Marketing Metrics spreadsheet tracker, which enabling architects to collect and analyse their most useful performance data and metrics across the six channels. See More

In this expert workshop, copywriter and marketing strategist Nikita Morell explains why words are important and how to use the words on your website to get more of the clients you really, really want. 

Recently, Nikita studied and analysed over 663 architecture websites – in her talk she’ll share her findings, ways to immediately improve your own practice website, and include real-life architecture practice examples

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Communications expert Alison Carter will discuss the art of concise communication to help you prepare a strategic and sophisticated verbal presentation and find both your project’s narrative and your own authentic voice. Award-winning architect Jon Jacka will share his experience as an entrant in the award process. Seasoned juror and award-winning architect Georgina Wilson will provide insight into the process from the dual perspectives of entrant and juror. Katherine Lu will discuss the art of architectural photography and give practical guidance about selecting the right photographer for your project, shaping your brief to them and preparing the project for a professional shoot.

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A cost-based approach to proposing design fees frequently leaves architects competing on fee to win new work, bartering for a position at the negotiation table and writing proposals that fail to capture the interest of their intended audience. By following an interest-based approach architects can write proposals that separate their services from the competition, cater to the needs of a larger client base and offer solutions that clients want to pay for.

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Examine ways of articulating your clients’ requirements more thoroughly to avoid common pitfalls in communication and find the ways to gain best use of the brief throughout design and delivery stages. See More

NCC

This program has been developed to bring you up to speed with the new changes to the NCC, and  how they will impact your work.

Each session in this series comprises a two-hour (2 formal CPD-point)  presentation, and the full series provides a total of 8 formal CPD points. Each 2 formal CPD-point session can be purchased individually. See More

In this session, Mathew Freeman provides a comprehensive update on the new fire safety provisions relating to a range of issues and typologies including external wall combustibility, bush fire prone zones, fire detection and early warning, and early childcare centres and primary schools in high rise buildings. Read More

Develop your understanding of newly introduced home energy budgets and how to achieve them, determine requirements relating to on-site renewables, battery storage and electric vehicle charging, and gain further insight into the expansion of the NABERS energy verification method. For this session we welcome from the University of New South Wales Dr. Anir Upadhyay as our presenter. Read More

In this session, Scott Flett and Dr. Mark Dewsbury will examine the improved provisions within the Code that will apply to condensation management for residential buildings. Read More

Learn about the new livable housing design requirements applicable to all new Class 1a and Class 2 buildings and intended to help increase the stock of Australian housing that can be adapted to meet the needs of older people and people with mobility limitations. Read More

Planning

Urban anxieties and cultural differences are examined through the microcosm of an Alice Springs architectural practice. Alice Springs has a suburban fringe but this is not where its edges lie. Knives, exit plans, a swamp and a science fiction-posed paradigm offer insight and a framework for review of recent public and commercial projects from the SDA team, in particular the CBD Revitalisation, an urban renewal project.

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What is permanent, and what is the real lifecycle of a building? Nazrine Seraji discusses Design as Agency – architecture as a living agent using historical examples and her own projects to critically review the many approaches to urban planning from small towns to super cities and explores the relationship between public realm amenity and built form that is necessary for sustainable urbanism.

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Moshe Safdie explains how the combination of densification, congestion and the new dominant typologies have brought about a dramatic deterioration of the public realm. He details how the single-use, multi-level mall disconnects from its surroundings and siphons energy off the traditional streets and piazzas, with the latter also severely affected by congestion and traffic. Moshe uses projects from his practice (such as the Habitat 67 complex) as case studies to show how they have tackled the challenge of mixed-use complexes throughout Asia, with the objective of restoring the public realm, befitting our times, culture and economy.

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In biological terms, the edge between two ecosystems is called an ecotone. In urban habitats, architects and urban planners must understand the importance of this edge as an ecosystem itself.  This seminar will explore these concepts through several examples of recent works by OAB that confront the circumstances of working at the edge – not only a physical edge but most importantly an intellectual one.

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Aimed to assist graduates and architects with two to eight years of experience and more to have a better understanding of authority approvals, planning controls and how these matters affect the practice of architecture. Other standards such as NCC and DDA that affect your work during the preparation of development applications will also be introduced.

See More

Practice Management

Changing consumer behaviour means that 70% of transactions now begin with an online search. This course helps architects understand how their various marketing activities should be optimised for success in this new eCommerce landscape.  Based on Sounds Like Design’s six-channel system, which helps practices raise awareness about the value of architecture and generate new business this session includes access to a free Marketing Metrics spreadsheet tracker, which enabling architects to collect and analyse their most useful performance data and metrics across the six channels. See More

In this expert workshop, copywriter and marketing strategist Nikita Morell explains why words are important and how to use the words on your website to get more of the clients you really, really want. 

Recently, Nikita studied and analysed over 663 architecture websites – in her talk she’ll share her findings, ways to immediately improve your own practice website, and include real-life architecture practice examples

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This course offers a guide to understanding your attribution and intellectual property rights.  Lawyer Adam Rosser provides an overview the Copyright Act and how it applies to architects, including case studies to illustrate how the Act has been applied.  

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In this program presented by Lindy Johnson, Lindy Johnson Creative we cover how to undertake successful business development, connect with more clients, and create a pipeline of work. Lindy details how to use effective marketing and communications to achieve your business development goals. Topics include the dos and don’ts of marketing, and the mistakes architects make that hinder connection with ideal clients.    

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Flexible working arrangements are essential to achieving gender equity in the workplace. 
What are the challenges, what works, what doesn’t, and how have other practices implemented flexible conditions for their staff? These are some of the questions to be discussed and debated at this entertaining and informative roundtable discussion. 

See More

Outstanding work cultures engender outstanding work, driving attraction and retention of staff and clients alike. But how is such a culture established and nurtured?
Four practices awarded for their achievements in this space present on how they have fostered a strong, unique culture and how it has benefited project outcomes and business performance. 
A panel discussion with speakers facilitated by Bespoke Career’s Krista Shearer follows.

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Joint ventures and other collaborations between practices enable the profession to respond flexibly to projects. They can allow access to specialist expertise and enable resource sharing in response to fluctuating work loads. This seminar, held as a workshop in South Australia will explore the structures for collaborative practice and consider the details that need to be resolved to manage risk and maximise benefit. See More

This seminar will examine the new contract provisions and mechanisms in detail, how to administer these, as well as looking at the supporting guidance materials and templates available to users of the contracts. 

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Communications expert Alison Carter will discuss the art of concise communication to help you prepare a strategic and sophisticated verbal presentation and find both your project’s narrative and your own authentic voice. Award-winning architect Jon Jacka will share his experience as an entrant in the award process. Seasoned juror and award-winning architect Georgina Wilson will provide insight into the process from the dual perspectives of entrant and juror. Katherine Lu will discuss the art of architectural photography and give practical guidance about selecting the right photographer for your project, shaping your brief to them and preparing the project for a professional shoot.

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Aimed to assist graduates and architects with two to eight years of experience and more to have a better understanding of authority approvals, planning controls and how these matters affect the practice of architecture. Other standards such as NCC and DDA that affect your work during the preparation of development applications will also be introduced.

See More

This module introduces the various types of building contracts and aspects to consider when selecting which contract to use. It will then cover providing advice to clients and how they may be included in tender processes and the issues likely to be faced when administering the contract.

See More

Having sound knowledge of the client-architect agreement and all its different components is critical to a successful project outcome. The scope of services and associated fee structure put in place needs to be well understood to ensure a project can be properly serviced.

See More

This module deals predominately with the early parts of architects’ interactions with a potential client.

This module will cover:

How architects market their services and secure new commissions

How architects respond appropriately to invitations when they arrive

How architects go about creating a project brief, which is a fundamental step in setting out the client’s requirements for the project

See More

Architects are not the only professionals required to provide design and other services for construction projects. The architect works with consultants from up to dozens of other disciplines to obtain expert advice and design inputs. The selection of, engagement of and collaboration with these consultants brings a range of risks and responsibilities that architects must carefully manage for the success of the project. This module introduces the fundamentals of architects’ working arrangements with consultants to help candidates understand how to manage these roles.

See More

This module provides an outline and understanding of the principles of lump sum contracts with regard to financial aspects, how to manage changes to the works and the contract price, how to make payment for the works and keeping the client informed of costs during construction.

See More

This module covers the role of the architect in relation to contracts and the related administrative essentials.

See More

This module focuses on the specific terms and conditions contained within a standard form construction contract, again using the ABIC Simple Works Contract as the example.
This module works through the contract schedules and explains why they are relevant, before covering the key terms and conditions throughout the Simple Works Contract.

See More

Ethics and ethical practices interact with everything the architect does—from the seemingly trivial through to the seriously life threatening.
Moral rights are also incredibly important for the architect—in terms of respecting the work of others as well as protecting your own work, and for providing a meaningful and valuable built environment legacy for future generations.

See More

This module covers a range of topics from the establishment of a practice through to its successful operation. Speaker: Mark Boffa

See More

This module covers a range of topics from the establishment of a practice through to its successful operation. Speaker: Melonie Bayl-Smith

See More

Professional indemnity insurances are some of the most important insurances that an architect needs to undertake business and can prevent it from going under in the event of a claim. This module will discuss:

  • One of the most important clauses of a professional indemnity insurance policy, the ‘insuring clause’.
  • Common ‘need to know’ insurance terms.
  • The difference between professional indemnity and public liability insurance.
  • Other types of insurance that are relevant for your business.
  • Common policy exclusions.
  • The fundamental nature of a professional indemnity policy namely that it is a ‘claims made and notified’ insurance.
  • The important requirement of the duty to notify.

See More

This module discusses areas of risk arising in architectural practice including avoidable and unavoidable risks, and introduces a number of tools that assist architects in managing risk in the delivery of designs.

See More

Contract law exists so that there is as much consistency and certainty as possible in everyone’s relations with one another. In the business sector, businesspeople must be able to hold each other to their promises. On the other hand, it is clear that in certain situations, statements made by a party should not be taken by another as a promise. Contract law aims to strike a balance between these considerations.

See More

This module outlines the legal obligations of an architect and the consequences of breaching them. It focuses on five key areas of special importance: negligence, contracts, the Architects Acts, the National Construction Code, and safe design

See More

A cost-based approach to proposing design fees frequently leaves architects competing on fee to win new work, bartering for a position at the negotiation table and writing proposals that fail to capture the interest of their intended audience. By following an interest-based approach architects can write proposals that separate their services from the competition, cater to the needs of a larger client base and offer solutions that clients want to pay for.

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In this session, David Gianotten will address the theme of risk and focus on the ways his work engages risk as a productive element within their work.

OMA Projects currently under his design and supervision include the Taipei Performing Arts Centre in Taiwan, the Hanwha Galleria in Busan Korea, the Taiyuan Industrial Heritage master plan in China and the Prince Plaza Building in Shenzhen China. 

See More

Through case studies and expert presentations, this special program explores key touch points for building a successful practice. It examines fee structures, risk management, intellectual property, business resilience, client relationships, practice culture and work/life, brand development, and leveraging Institute membership for maximum benefit.

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This seminar will explore the world of competitive tendering. It will allow you to better navigate the tender process, from pursuit through to submission. The seminar will provide insights into how to select the right partners, how to maximise the likelihood of being shortlisted, how to strengthen your contribution to major tender processes and how to develop a tender strategy and translate that into action.

The seminar will be presented in modules based on the business development cycle and covering pursuit, return on investment, tender and post tender. 

See More

Architects operate in a complex, changing environment. This is not likely to diminish with technological disruption, client expectations, work practices and professional standards constantly evolving. To be successful, it isn’t enough to survive such changes. Instead, you need to be equipped to thrive through them.

Humans are hardwired to resist change, however, this can be overcome with deliberate learning and practice. This session will provide you with insights, tools and techniques so you can thrive in today’s changing environment and ultimately maintain high levels of agility, effectiveness, productivity and employee morale.

See More

Refresher courses

Aimed to assist graduates and architects with two to eight years of experience and more to have a better understanding of authority approvals, planning controls and how these matters affect the practice of architecture. Other standards such as NCC and DDA that affect your work during the preparation of development applications will also be introduced.

See More

This module introduces the various types of building contracts and aspects to consider when selecting which contract to use. It will then cover providing advice to clients and how they may be included in tender processes and the issues likely to be faced when administering the contract.

See More

Having sound knowledge of the client-architect agreement and all its different components is critical to a successful project outcome. The scope of services and associated fee structure put in place needs to be well understood to ensure a project can be properly serviced.

See More

This module deals predominately with the early parts of architects’ interactions with a potential client.

This module will cover:

How architects market their services and secure new commissions

How architects respond appropriately to invitations when they arrive

How architects go about creating a project brief, which is a fundamental step in setting out the client’s requirements for the project

See More

Architects are not the only professionals required to provide design and other services for construction projects. The architect works with consultants from up to dozens of other disciplines to obtain expert advice and design inputs. The selection of, engagement of and collaboration with these consultants brings a range of risks and responsibilities that architects must carefully manage for the success of the project. This module introduces the fundamentals of architects’ working arrangements with consultants to help candidates understand how to manage these roles.

See More

This module provides an outline and understanding of the principles of lump sum contracts with regard to financial aspects, how to manage changes to the works and the contract price, how to make payment for the works and keeping the client informed of costs during construction.

See More

This module covers the role of the architect in relation to contracts and the related administrative essentials.

See More

This module focuses on the specific terms and conditions contained within a standard form construction contract, again using the ABIC Simple Works Contract as the example.
This module works through the contract schedules and explains why they are relevant, before covering the key terms and conditions throughout the Simple Works Contract.

See More

Ethics and ethical practices interact with everything the architect does—from the seemingly trivial through to the seriously life threatening.
Moral rights are also incredibly important for the architect—in terms of respecting the work of others as well as protecting your own work, and for providing a meaningful and valuable built environment legacy for future generations.

See More

This module covers a range of topics from the establishment of a practice through to its successful operation. Speaker: Mark Boffa

See More

This module covers a range of topics from the establishment of a practice through to its successful operation. Speaker: Melonie Bayl-Smith

See More

Professional indemnity insurances are some of the most important insurances that an architect needs to undertake business and can prevent it from going under in the event of a claim. This module will discuss:

  • One of the most important clauses of a professional indemnity insurance policy, the ‘insuring clause’.
  • Common ‘need to know’ insurance terms.
  • The difference between professional indemnity and public liability insurance.
  • Other types of insurance that are relevant for your business.
  • Common policy exclusions.
  • The fundamental nature of a professional indemnity policy namely that it is a ‘claims made and notified’ insurance.
  • The important requirement of the duty to notify.

See More

This module discusses areas of risk arising in architectural practice including avoidable and unavoidable risks, and introduces a number of tools that assist architects in managing risk in the delivery of designs.

See More

 

Contract law exists so that there is as much consistency and certainty as possible in everyone’s relations with one another. In the business sector, businesspeople must be able to hold each other to their promises. On the other hand, it is clear that in certain situations, statements made by a party should not be taken by another as a promise. Contract law aims to strike a balance between these considerations.

See More

This module outlines the legal obligations of an architect and the consequences of breaching them. It focuses on five key areas of special importance: negligence, contracts, the Architects Acts, the National Construction Code, and safe design

See More

Sustainability

The fundamentals that underpin BIM and Sustainability will be explored by highlighting when and why environmental analysis should be undertaken and what tools are available within BIM software packages. This seminar will explain what each analysis is, how it works and why it’s important. It will also explore non-BIM tools and other considerations beyond BIM that designers should be mindful of when creating truly sustainable designs.

This session is suitable for both the novice and expert in BIM and similarly so in sustainability.

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In this two-part series we showcase single dwelling and multi-residential projects from across Australia and representing architecture in a range of climate zones that have achieved high NatHERS ratings.  See More

In this session we showcase single dwelling projects from across Australia and representing architecture in a range of climate zones that have achieved high NatHERS ratings. See More

In this session we showcase multi-residential projects from across Australia and representing architecture in a range of climate zones that have achieved high NatHERS ratings. See More

In this lecture from the Ground Matters Student Conference 2024, Andrew Steen interrogates the relation of building materials to the history, present, and future of a place – specifically, bricks and bluestone to Launceston, lutruwita (Tasmania). Conventional perspectives on tradition and ideologies based on western philosophies and academic scaffolds will be interrogated, and new grounds for practice sketched out.


Christina and Martino of Collaboratorio, discuss their environmentally conscious architecture using traditional materials. In their talk they go back to basics ,reintroducing traditional building materials to serve contemporary needs. Focusing on minimally processed, natural resources like unburned clay, developing “Luonnonbetoni,” a sustainable concrete alternative. See More

In this talk from the Ground Matters Student Conference 2024, Mat Hinds and Poppy Taylor discuss Tasmania’s spatial and communal memory, highlighting the experiential pressure arising from the island’s unique context. It explores the themes of history, meaning, and experience, particularly through the Krakani Lumi – Wukalina project with the palawa community.

Following is a talk from Louise Wright and Mauro Baracco. They question how architecture can transform its environmental impact by focusing on land use and regeneration. They discuss concepts of remaking a relationship with the ground, as well as research, teaching, speculation and practice approaches of reuse and removal of built form and environmental repair from metropolitan to 1:1 scale. See More

In this lecture from Ground Matters Student Conference 2024, Kerstin Thompson discusses how ground matters have been foundational to KTA’s practice. The ways in which our architecture critically relates to Australia’s diverse landscapes – and to disciplinary, theoretical and historical groundings – will be explored in Kerstin’s reflection upon a number of projects.

Timothy Hill speaks on architecture’s profound ability to evoke powerful responses. It can heighten our awareness of the intrinsic aspects of habitation and the landscape. Creating an appropriate ‘ground’ for occupation is crucial, reshaping the site’s boundaries and topography to enrich the experience and mitigate any surrounding challenges. This approach can include crafting miniaturized landscapes and urban elements, tapping into collective memories and associations. By prioritising emotional resonance, spaces become memorable and enduring, sustaining qualities over time such as light, weather response, and spatial dynamics. Through careful attention to detail, materiality, and spatial relationships, architecture can continuously engage and provoke genuine perceptions and responses. See More

In this talk from Ground Matters Student Conference, Sarah Lynn Rees discusses how nothing is more timeless than Country.
“Neighbourhood character” is a phrase often used to describe the “look and feel of an area” and why this should be preserved. As a design driver however, the term often acts as a device to reproduce watered down versions of colonial architecture. We live in a country that has incredibly deep geological, ecological and cultural stories. These stories form a more relevant and fundamental starting point than the echoing of architectural styles that have, since colonial times, erased the identity of place. It is our job to bring these stories back into view, for and with Country.  

Sarah will discuss these ideas through a selection of three projects including Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity at the University of Melbourne, Melbourne Arboretum and Western Sydney University Indigenous Centre of Excellence. These projects represent design of varying scale and typology, from interiors to pavilion to precinct.

Eleena Jamil explores About Making: The cultural continuity and environmental awareness embodied in the architectural-making process, which involves local materials and methods, can offer valuable insights into reimagining modern building practices. A selection of projects presented will demonstrate an engagement with the design and building process and the development of a deep understanding of natural and human resources rooted in context. See more

This formal 3 point CPD aims to provide a better understanding of how the 2022 NCC changes and requirements for residential energy efficiency and QLD Resilient Home Guidance may impact the design, climate resilience and affordability of housing in QLD. Read More

Following National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 updates relating to energy efficiency, the NSW Government is introducing important equivalent changes that will apply from 1 October 2023 under the state’s ramped up Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) scheme to improve energy efficiency. Among the strongest sustainable planning measures to be adopted in Australia, the new BASIX requirements will apply to all new residential projects as well as renovations and extensions valued at more than $50,000. An essential session for all architects working on residential projects in NSW, undertake this course to hear directly from Planning NSW’s Mary O’Neill about the revised BASIX requirements and assessment tool, and learn design strategies to for achieving the new performance standards through case studies presented by ESD experts Tracey Cools and Troy Daly.

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Aesthetics, technicalities, collaboration and fundamentals of Passive House design. This event will explain the essentials of Passive House design and how aesthetics are integrated into the design. It will discuss a range of typologies and dissect the design processes and challenges from each of the building types.

The focus will be on educational, high rise and commercial projects, not residential. Finally, this session will address the technicalities that come with Passive House design and outline what a successful project looks like. 

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This course will introduce the concept of regenerative design, take a deep dive into the principles of the field, and provide the tools to incorporate regenerative design into practice. Initially held as a workshop in South Australia this course is presented by two leading experts in the emerging field of regenerative design. See more

This CPD session showcases current research from the University of Wellington, University of Western Australia and Deakin University will discuss a variety of issues related to sustainability and research.

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The world faces an urgent challenge in creating a living future that is “culturally rich, socially just and ecologically restorative”. How can we ensure good standards of living for all, while having a positive rather than a negative impact on the world? The architectural profession can have a crucial role in this opportunity, with good, smart housing a great place to start. Caroline Pidcock will address the leading approaches to zero-emission housing around the world and how this could affect Australian directions in the future.

This seminar will also explore how integrated design teams and responses are integral to achieving these goals.

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With nearly 40 percent of the world’s pollution generated by construction it’s undeniable that the industry has a significant impact on the planet. 
This is exacerbated by inefficient production processes, considerable displacement of supplies, and excessive waste during various other stages of construction. At the end of this presentation you should be able to:

1. Examine microrecycling science and zero waste  
2. Discuss the challenges & benefits that underpins the issues relating to zero waste
3. Understand how through good design strategies, technology and materials can provide sustainable solutions
4. Prepare design lessons by developing a product from concept to reality
5. Explore through case studies methods to bring your client along the journey to better environmental outcomes

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This seven lecture seminar series provides practical guidelines and case study insights enabling practitioners to ready themselves to design to zero carbon parameters by 2025. 

Individal Modules in the series are also available for purchase.

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This module explores:

  • Overview of net zero and how to get there
  • Broad overview of demand side optimisation
  • How to strategically target clients and projects
  • Architectural fundamentals to demand side optimisation
  • Building orientation
  • Massing
  • Glazing extents – impact on energy and daylight
  • Façade thermal performance

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This lecture will discuss how building design can affect energy demand in different ways in different climactic zones. It will discuss how the energy supply solutions chosen might be different in different locations and for different building typologies, including:

  • Hospitals, airports and similar 24/7 critical processes
  • Campuses
  • Mixed-use precincts
  • Commercial office
  • Hotel/residential

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This module provides an overview of Life Cycle Design and why it is important for the low carbon economy and low carbon buildings., offering a demonstration of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) as a design process – the story of a zero carbon building design. It will also cover LCA in practice (via the software demonstration).

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This module explores:

  • Modelling early design decisions’ impact on the environmental, structural and materials performance optimisation.
  • Overview of the benefit of simulating and analysing environmental and energy performance, including carbon, information in early and concept stages of design.
  • Predicting carbon footprint via simulation and computational design tools – using cost-effective tools such as Karamba3D and the design modelling software combination of Rhinoceros 3D and Grasshopper. This will include live demonstrations using case-studies.
  • Predicting and minimising material waste using parametric workflows within Rhino/Grasshopper tools.
  • Platform workflows arming the designer with knowledge about the probable impacts for embodied and operational energy as the project progresses.
  • Live demonstration of Ladybug/Honeybee and Rhino/Grasshopper tools.
  • Demonstration of simple iteration/optimisation techniques.

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Building Waste – It’s time to Design it Out.

This module explores:

  • The problems of construction and fit-out waste
  • How much waste is produced from buildings
  • Current flows of key materials (e.g. concrete, steel, timber) – within an Australian/WA context
  • Local context of material shortages (e.g. sand, concrete sand, low grade limestone and plastic clays)
  • Current linear economy and why it is fundamentally flawed
  • What is the circular economy (CE) (an economic model that happens to be better for the environment/reducing carbon)
  • CE principles, circular design, business models, reverse cycles, enablers
  • Principles for designing out waste
  • Tangible case studies relevant to architects
  • What role architects need to play in a circular economy

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This module explores:

  • A recap of the climate change challenge and the urgent need for improving the energy efficiency of buildings.
  • The current status of the built environment and its current contribution to carbon emissions.
  • What does a zero energy building look like, with a focus on energy consumption and targeting net zero energy.
  • Two case studies demonstrating the principles and how these targets have been achieved within Australia (“living building” challenge certified?).

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This module explores:

  • Quantifying the embodied energy within the structure
  • Comparing it for alternative materials, steel, concrete and timber
  • Comparison with refurbished buildings
  • Comparison with operational energy
  • The impact of the highly connected value chain on the reduction of embodied and operational carbon
  • The UN’s Sustainability Development Goals
  • Positive impacts of re-use or recycling on demolition
  • Comparing structure with the remainder of the construction and running/maintenance costs/carbon.

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Technical

Two vital steps to project success are communicating the client’s needs (in the brief) and communicating the detail of how those needs will be met (in specifications). The last two decades have seen great shifts in the responsibility of clients, consultants and builders for these key decisions. Shortcomings and shortcuts in these areas are regular contributors to defects and disputes. 

Through case studies of claims, the legally qualified Risk Managers from informed by Planned Cover will discuss an architect’s duty of care when it comes to briefing and specifications, and look at ways to reduce the risks of errors and claims.

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This seminar will provide a refresher on the work health and safety legislation in relation to designer responsibilities and discuss how designers can achieve a safe design approach in their projects. The focus will include what designers should endeavour to eliminate from the workplace and design innovations which can create productive workplaces free from injury and disease.

The seminar will address methods of communicating safe design in documents, plans and reports to ensure that design intent is not lost in the build process.

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Examine ways of articulating your clients’ requirements more thoroughly to avoid common pitfalls in communication and find the ways to gain best use of the brief throughout design and delivery stages. See More

Wellbeing

The way we design and organize our living environments can fundamentally impact our social connections, and quality of life including our physical and mental health. Place Agency presents a series of conversations with six prominent architectural practitioners and academics in Australia and the UK, considering the intersection between design, social value and the power of social connection.

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This program introduces the key principles behind accessible design. Our presenters address the structure of the regulatory framework for accessibility of the Australian built environment and unpack important design concepts for accessibility. See more

What role can architects play in the rebuilding of communities after natural disasters? 

In this presentation Jenny Donovan explores how architects can best help communities recover from disasters, how it is different to normal circumstances and the personal qualities required to truly make a difference. 

This session is applicable to  disasters or extreme events causing trauma.

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Through a selection of his resort projects and his design of the Thailand Pavilion in the Venice Biennale Architectural Exhibition in 2014, ‘Lek’ Mathar Bunnag shares the significant factors that inform, influence and shape his work. People, nature, cultural heritage and cosmic forces are all keys to his work, as well as the concept of architecture as art – sculpture, painting, poetry, dance and music are all part of the architecture.

Discover Bunnag’s interpretation of cultural heritage in relation to the individual and as a source of inspiration, not definition. Bunnag discusses how the intangible informs the tangible and the purpose of architecture – to provide serenity and joy. 

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Flexible working arrangements are essential to achieving gender equity in the workplace. 
What are the challenges, what works, what doesn’t, and how have other practices implemented flexible conditions for their staff? These are some of the questions discussed and debated at this entertaining and informative roundtable discussion. 

See More

The Liveable Housing Australia Design Guidelines are increasingly being referred to by local planning authorities. Clare Paterson will discuss how their application has been used in various housing situations and the steps required to have a project LHA Certified.

With a focus on the acute hospital environment, Ellie Newman will give you a better understanding on how dementia can affect the way a person experiences and interacts with the built environment. The seminar will be an interactive experience session’ that will engage and enlighten attendees on what it is like to live with dementia or reduced abilities along with highlighting design changes that can enable them to maintain independence. Two volunteers will wear an ageing suit to demonstrate the impact of ageing on the body and be able to experience the visual, hearing and physical disabilities than can accompany old age and dementia.

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Social Sustainability is about ensuring the sustenance of the diverse social relations that exist in healthy communities. Creating the physical, cultural and social places that support wellbeing and a sense of community involves a process of engagement with the people who inhabit and frequent those places. This presentation will discuss the growing public policy emphasis on wellbeing and performance of public spaces, how we can respond, what this means for innovation in design practice, who is involved in delivering Social Sustainability, why it is important, and what happens if we do not.

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Architects engage at a very personal level with people looking to rebuild in the future after disasters. This session considers the effects of trauma on the mind. Clinical Psychologist and trauma expert Rob Gordon outlines the characteristics of continuing stress and how to recognize and interact with someone in this state.

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Get in touch

Our  CPD team always appreciates your feedback regarding our programs. If you have any topic suggestions for the development of further CPD course content, please let us know. 

For further information, contact our CPD Team:

e: cpd@architecture.com.au

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