The start of 2023 has been a busy time for advocacy in the SA Chapter. We thank our members who have offered their time and expertise in support of various causes and topics.
NCC 2022
The SA Chapter continued work with a group of disability and ageing advocacy organisations to push for a set implementation date of the NCC 2022 in SA, including the adoption of accessibility requirements and a minimum seven-star energy efficiency rating in new homes. In March, the SA Government announced that 1 October 2024 would be the commencement date. This is an important step forward in mitigating the impact of the built environment on our changing climate and ensuring homes allow for ageing in place.
CITF ACT REVIEW
The SA Chapter prepared a review of the Construction Industry Training Fund (CITF) Act 1993, advocating for additional support for the architectural profession. This submission can be accessed here.
HOUSING AVAILABILITY
At the request of the Parliamentary Economic and Finance Committee, the newly formed SA Housing Task Force prepared a submission identifying several issues and potential solutions regarding housing availability. This submission can be accessed here.
MARION’S LIST WORKSHOP
In support of Parlour’s month-long campaign to grow and update Marion’s List, a public register of female and gender-diverse professionals in the built environment disciplines, the SA Chapter hosted a writing workshop in March. This was a lovely opportunity for a group of women to come together, discuss what goes into an excellent professional bio and get some writing done in a supportive environment. Photos from the event are available here.
PROVISIONAL HERITAGE LISTINGS
Two buildings from the SA Chapter’s Notable Buildings Register were provisionally listed as State Heritage Places in December 2022. We helped lead a letter campaign calling for submissions of support for Dr Kent’s Paddock Complex. A record-breaking number of submissions (overwhelmingly positive) were sent to Heritage SA. The Institute also sent in a submission in support of the listings for Dr Kent’s and Everard Court. We hope to see the confirmation of both places following the next meeting of the SA Heritage Council on June 15.
ADELAIDE PARK LANDS
In response to ongoing proposals for significant development within the nationally-listed Adelaide Park Lands, the SA Chapter is exploring different avenues to advocate for increased protection. Development in the Park Lands poses a threat to South Australian heritage and disregards the increasing importance of accessible green spaces as a public asset and in mitigating urban heat.
Most recently, we submitted a letter signed by our Chapter President, Chris Morley, and National President, Shannon Battisson, to the Federal Minister for the Environment and Water and the Australian Heritage Council calling for action to protect the Park Lands.
We have also offered support to Robert Simms MLC and his work in this space. We encourage members to sign the petition to encourage the SA government to add the Adelaide Park Lands to the State Heritage list.
