ABOUT THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS
We advance architecture
together.
What we do
Supporting architects.
Shaping the profession.
Everything we do is guided by a simple purpose: advancing architecture and supporting the people who practise it.
Support architects
We provide the resources, education, professional development and member communities that help architects thrive throughout their careers, from students and graduates through to practice leaders and Fellows.
Shape the profession
We advocate for architects across Australia, contribute to public policy, develop professional standards and work with government and industry to improve outcomes for the profession and the communities it serves.
Celebrate excellence
Through awards, events, publications and national programs, we recognise outstanding architecture and showcase the value of good design.
Invest in the future
We're committed to strengthening the future of architecture through sustainability, First Nations leadership, equity and inclusion, wellbeing, research and support for the next generation of architects.
About the Institute
Advancing architecture for almost a century.
For almost a century, the Australian Institute of Architects has been the national voice for the architectural profession. As Australia's peak body for architecture, we support more than 14,000 members to build rewarding careers, lead successful practices and shape a better built environment for everyone.
Our work spans every stage of the architectural journey. We advocate for the profession, uphold professional standards, recognise excellence through our awards programs, provide education and professional development, and create opportunities for members to connect, learn and lead.
Everything we do is guided by a simple purpose: advancing architecture and supporting the people who practise it.
Explore membership
THE INSTITUTE GROUP
Supporting the profession together.
Supporting the profession takes more than one organisation. That's why the Institute owns an ecosystem of independently operated businesses and member-led organisations that strengthen the profession in different ways.
LEADERSHIP & GOVERNANCE
Member-led. Profession-focused.
The Australian Institute of Architects is a not-for-profit public company limited by guarantee.
The Institute is governed by a Board of Directors and advised by the member-elected National Council, ensuring members' voices help shape the strategic direction of the organisation.
Governance framework
A framework that supports good governance.
Constitution is the key component of its governance framework that also includes relevant legislation (in particular the Corporations Act 2001), alongside other internal documents including, Regulations, Charters for bodies such as the Board, National Council and Board Committees, position descriptions for key roles. policies and procedures.
The Constitution of a company sets out certain rights, roles and responsibilities of members and directors and rules which govern various internal management activities such as meetings of members and directors.
Constitutions of companies in Australia can only be changed through a vote of members, at a general meeting, which supports proposed changes. For the Constitution to remain fit-for-purpose it needs to be adapted to reflect modern practices in Australian law and the Institute’s structures. This means that the Constitution will need to be updated from time-to-time. The Constitution was last updated at the AGM in July 2020.
A suite of Regulations gives guidance on matters related to the Constitution and the operation of the Institute, including; membership categories, how elections are undertaken, disciplinary proceedings, etc. These Regulations are currently under review.
Key policy and governance documents
Constitution
The Constitution establishes the Institute's legal framework and can only be amended by members at a general meeting.
View Constitution →Strategic Plan
The Strategic Plan outlines the Institute's vision and purpose for 2024 - 2026.
View Strategic Plan →Code of Professional Conduct
The Code promotes the highest standards of professional conduct and ethical practice for members.
View Code →Member Behaviour Policy
Supporting respectful, safe and welcoming environments across Institute workplaces and events.
View Handbook →Gender Equity Pledge
Supporting fairness, inclusion and equal opportunity across the architectural profession.
View Policy →Privacy Policy
Learn how we collect, manage and protect personal information.
View Privacy Policy →Annual Report
Read about our performance, achievements and impact in our latest Annual Report.
Access our annual reports →Member Policies
Additional policies relevant to members can be found via the Member Portal.
Sign in to Member Portal →Member leadership
Members shaping the profession
The Institute is led by its staff and supported by members who contribute their expertise through councils, committees and advisory groups across the country.
These groups help guide advocacy, strengthen professional practice, inform decision making and ensure the Institute reflects the diversity of the profession and the communities it serves.
National leadership
National committees and member leadership
Across Australia, members contribute through National Council, Chapter Councils, specialist committees and advisory groups, helping shape the Institute's priorities and the future of the profession.
Member-led initiatives
Insights from two of our member-led structures include:
Gender Equity, Diversity and Impact →
The Gender Equity, Diversity and Impact(GEDI) Committee helps advance a more inclusive profession by guiding the Institute's work on equity, representation and culture. Through initiatives, partnerships and practical resources, it supports meaningful change across architecture.
Read our GEDI pledge →First Nations leadership
The First Nations Advisory Committee provides strategic leadership on the Institute's commitment to working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Together with the Cultural Reference Panel, it helps shape guidance, resources and initiatives that strengthen culturally informed architectural practice.
Learn more about our First Nations work →GET IN TOUCH
We're here to help.
Whether you're considering membership, looking for professional support or simply want to learn more about the Institute, we'd love to hear from you.