Dear members,
Further to our advice to you on Tuesday regarding the application of Victoria’s Stage 4 COVID-19 pandemic restrictions to the construction sector, I am pleased to provide you with an important update on how these apply to architects.
Following the Institute’s swift engagement with the Victorian Government, clarification has now been provided confirming that architects can continue to access sites for permitted construction.
The Victorian Government has recently issued further advice on ‘Permitted work premises for the purposes of the restricted activity directions’.
This includes specific permission for:
“Architecture, surveying, building inspection and engineering services, where required on site for permitted construction”.
This is an important modification to the original announcement that will enable architects to continue to discharge their duties, including by ensuring safe and high quality construction outcomes. I thank our Victorian Chapter leaders for their timely and successful advocacy on this issue in support of our members.
Architects who do need to travel to construction sites that fall within the definition of ‘permitted construction’ will need to carry a permit to do so and we urge you to consult the DHHS website for further information and to ensure you are complying with requirements.
Julia Cambage
CEO