The Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) met with the Minister for Planning, Matthew Guy and his staff to discuss the abolition of the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV) in a move to have the decision reversed.

Last week Guy announced the changes that the Building Commission, Plumbing Industry Commission and the ARBV would form a new combined Authority.

Representatives of the RAIA, Jon Clements, David Parken and Alison Cleary and the Association of Consulting Architects representative Simon Hanger discussed the proposed changes to the building regulatory framework in Victoria, including the ARBV.

The AIA stated in their newsletter:

"While it was a constructive and positive meeting we made it very clear that we stand by our policy supporting the registration of Architects and regulation of the profession, through an independent Architect’s Act. We also stated that we believe that the ARBV’s main purpose - to protect the public through its rigid code of conduct - has been very effective over many years."

In response to the meeting, Guy's office has released a statement which emphasises that the change is 'vital' for the continued growth of the state and the strength of the building industry.

"The key functions of the ARBV such as determining qualifications and experience required for registration, regulating examinations and accrediting courses in architecture will continue. Working with architects on continuing professional development and in developing mutual recognition models will also continue."

The statement also said that consultation with the AIA and ARBV will occur early next year with structural changes set to take place in the third quarter of 2013.

Madeline Prince

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