Division 1 sets out general practice standards that apply to all architects and architectural work. These standards are also relevant for approved companies and partnerships.
(1) When carrying out work, an architect must take all reasonable steps to protect the health and safety of people.
(2) An architect has a responsibility, where possible, to act in accordance with the public interest and to give proper consideration to the—
(a) natural environment; and
(b) conservation of cultural heritage, including Aboriginal cultural heritage; and
(c) conservation of natural resources.
(3) An architect, by the architect's conduct, must endeavour to engender confidence in and respect for the profession of architecture.
(4) An architect, by the architect's conduct, must endeavour to maintain the standards and integrity of the profession of architecture.
Through their work, architects play an important role in shaping the built environment. Buildings and places designed by architects can affect the health, safety, wellbeing and well-functioning of the broader community, including the diverse groups within it.
This important role also entails responsibilities. In particular, architects owe duties to the public. These duties are designed to help prevent harm to the public, including (but not limited to):
- unsafe buildings and injury;
- environmentally harmful design choices;
- harm or destruction of places of particular cultural significance.
Architects also owe duties to the profession. These duties are designed to maintain trust and confidence in and respect for the profession through professional and compliant conduct among all members of the profession.
Health and safety
- Take appropriate steps to ensure all designs comply with building regulation, including the National Construction Code (NCC), particularly provisions that could have an adverse impact on public health and safety.
- Where a client's instructions raise public safety concerns, advise the client in writing and recommend a compliant alternative.
- Promptly notify the person in charge of the building site of any safety issues observed or any safety-related defects arising from work that does not comply with the architect's design, specifications or instructions.
Natural environment, cultural heritage and natural resources
- Consider environmental sustainability and conservation of natural resources in design development where possible.
- Before commencing work on or near a heritage-listed site, or a site that may have cultural significance to Aboriginal communities, identify the applicable legislative and planning controls and engage appropriately with relevant regulatory authorities.
- Where a project may affect Aboriginal cultural heritage, check whether a Cultural Heritage Management Plan is required under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Vic) and take reasonable steps to ensure the client understands their obligations under this legislation, if it applies.
- Where appropriate and possible, the project team should have relevant expertise to address issues arising for the natural environment, cultural heritage and natural resources.
Professional standards and integrity
- Conduct yourself in all professional dealings, including with clients, contractors, other consultants and the public, with honesty, integrity, openness, courtesy and respect.
- Avoid making false, misleading or disparaging public statements about other architects or the profession.
Detailed guidance
See detailed guidance below on DUTIES TO THE PUBLIC and DUTIES TO THE PROFESSION.
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