COUNTRY REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT
AUSTRALIA - OCTOBER 2020
COVID OVERVIEW
Australia is still experiencing internal state border closures as well as internationally.
The effect on the building economy has been widespread with social distancing requirements slowing productivity in construction. The Architectural profession has adapted well to the new normal of working from home, but Local Government Offices remain closed making consultation on new projects much slower leading to concerns that there will be a time lag negative effect on construction.
Federal and State Governments are trying to stimulate economic growth with infrastructure projects and employment subsidies. The demand for housing, schools, commercial, health and industrial projects has changed with migration now being virtually stopped, leading to the re-evaluation of necessary planning for the future requirements of a Covid safe environment.
MEMBERS
With 61 members of the AIAIR spread around Australia, contact has been limited between members as the Australian Architectural profession comes to grips with the new work practices required to adapt to the “new normal” environment.
Australia has a strong local body, the Australian Institute of Architects, concerned with the
issues of Covid and Climate Change which are now the biggest items of consultation with Governments and the Building Industry.
The restrictions on travel is having a negative effect on firms and individuals with projects overseas and interstate but, as always, Architects are leading the way with innovative solutions to solve these problems.
Simon Wells, RAIA, Intl. Assoc. AIA
Architect
NSW Architects Registration No 4932
Victorian Architects Registration No 20489
ABN 68 176 935 634
43 Queens Road Asquith NSW 2077
M PO Box 3065 Asquith NSW 2077
T (+61 2) 9477 6312
M 0411 199 530
