Petition Opposition to abolishment of the Architects Registration Board of Victoria

Issue:

This petition of residents in Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Assembly that the Government has proposed to absorb the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV)—the statutory authority responsible for registering and regulating architects—into a licensing body under the Business Licensing Authority (BLA). If the ARBV is not retained as a distinct entity and its functions are absorbed into a Business and Professions Regulator, it would effectively abolish the ARBV and risk negative consequences under current legislation in Victoria and nationally. The ARBV maintains the register of architects, sets and enforces standards, investigates complaints, and supports consumer protection. It is self-funded through registration fees and does not draw on the government budget. Petitioners are concerned that abolishing the Board would remove independent, profession-specific oversight and may reduce transparency, accountability and public confidence in regulation in Victoria. There are concerns this change could affect architects’ ability to practise interstate or overseas, an important export for Victoria. It may also impact architectural education and the future workforce. Victoria produces ~43% of Australia’s Master of Architecture graduates across five accredited programs, including many international students. Misalignment with the national system risks uncertainty in recognition, mobility, registration, and accreditation.

Action:

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Assembly 1. Oppose any legislation or administrative action that would abolish the Architects Registration Board of Victoria; 2. Ensure that any reform to the regulation of architects in Victoria retains independent, profession-specific oversight to protect consumers and maintain professional standards; 3. Ensure that any reform does not impact Exports of Services overseas and interstate; 4. Ensure that any reforms do not impact the education sector and future workforce.