Why communication matters - 2 more videos released!

As announced in the June edition of the ARBV Update the ARBV has developed an 8-part video series in partnership with Antoinette Trimble and Allison Tsao from CPD for Architects designed to help architects practising in Victoria to communicate more effectively with their clients. The videos are hosted on our YouTube channel. The topics and release dates are listed below:

01 - Proactively Building the Relationship - 24 June

02 - Educating the Client - 24 June

03 - Setting Clear Expectations - 2 July

04 - Record Keeping - 2 July

05 - Managing Scope Creep - 8 July

06 - Communicating Bad News Early - 8 July

07 - Navigating Conflict with Clients - 15 July

08 - Promoting Your Value as an Architect - 15 July

Architects Regulations 2026 guidance materials

Updated web response

Following enquiries made by architects, the ARBV has reviewed the interpretation of clause 6(1) of the Code of Conduct and has changed one web response (below) to align with legal advice received:

Can you provide sketches or initial concept drawings to a potential client to secure business without having a client agreement in place?

No. Under clause 6(1) of the Code, an architect must not provide architectural services – including concept designs, sketches or reports – for a client without a written and signed client agreement in place. This applies regardless of whether the work is preliminary or speculative in character, and regardless of whether any fee is charged or expected.

Before a client agreement is in place, an architect may present their portfolio of previously completed work, have general discussions about capabilities and fees, or conduct preliminary scoping conversations that do not involve producing any design or other architectural work for the prospective client.

Guidance materials available

The ARBV is continuing to work on developing guidance material to support architects to transition to the Architects Regulations 2026. You are reminded that guidance materials already available on our website include a side-by-side comparison of the new and the previous Code of Conduct; a summary of the Code changes; the ARBV’s webinar recording and slides about changes to the regulatory framework; and responses to key themes arising from questions about the changes.