The Australian Institute of Architects’ position on the Federal Budget has been made known by National President Jane Cassidy, who says that while some issues have been addressed, there is more work to be done.

“The Institute is pleased to see some critical issues from our pre-budget submission being addressed,” Cassidy begins in a media release published by the Institute.

“However, significant gaps remain in several areas requiring further attention and investment. We will continue to collaborate with the government to advocate for a built environment that champions sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience.”

While promising to enhance the clean energy workforce, the Institute is of the belief that there is not adequate investment into low-carbon building materials, research and development, and local manufacturing. Cassidy is also quick to point out a lack of guidelines for adaptive reuse of existing buildings.

“The Institute agrees with the Treasurer that there is a golden opportunity to decarbonise and move towards a circular economy. Yet, vital investments in low carbon solutions and practical guidelines for existing infrastructures are missing,” she says.

A new national policy for buildings is being proposed by the Institute. This policy aims for net zero carbon emissions in both new and existing buildings by 2030 and 2040 respectively. It would achieve this by requiring stricter building codes, reducing embodied carbon in new structures, and eliminating natural gas use in all new buildings by 2025. Additionally, it calls for retrofitting existing buildings for clean energy and faster adoption of renewable energy sources.

Support for the Australian Climate Service has been given the tick of approval by the Institute, but say that the funding allocated is not enough, which would enhance national datasets and climate resilience. In regards to housing, the funding provided by the government for social and Indigenous housing is commended by the Institute, but says that good design provisions are not enhanced by said funding.

“Every Australian deserves a home that is safe, comfortable, and enhances their quality of life,” Cassidy says.

“Architects are key to making this a reality. Inclusive, sustainable, and affordable housing is not just a dream, but a feasible reality with architects leading the design and construction of our homes. The housing crisis is not just a problem to solve, but an opportunity to build better communities. Architects are at the heart of this transformation.”

The Institute says that funding for diversity in STEM fields is promising but does not invest in training for a circular economy, which it says it hopes is addressed. The Institute has additionally called for a significant increase in funding and strategic planning to incorporate accessible design principles in all future public infrastructure projects.