The Australian Institute of Architects has expressed concern over the federal government’s 2024-25 budget, which it says “falls short” in measures for decarbonising the built environment.
The budget, which was released on 14 May, included greater investment in a more resilient economy powered by clean energy, as well as more social and Indigenous housing.
The Institute said that while it commended the government’s pledge to grow the clean energy workforce, the budget lacks substantial investment “in low-carbon building materials, research, development and local manufacturing capabilities,” adding that the absence of guidelines for the adaptive reuse and retrofitting of existing buildings was “particularly concerning.”
“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,” said the national president of the Australian Institute of Architects, Jane Cassidy.
Also lacking, the Institute said, is enough funding to improve national datasets and maps for climate resilience, which it stated is a critical component of designing buildings capable of withstanding the impacts of climate change.
Although it welcomed the budget’s provisions for social housing and Indigenous housing in remote communities, the Institute said “more must be done to increase housing supply that is climate resilient, energy efficient, and durable.”
“As an industry and as a nation, we must adapt swiftly to deliver timely, affordable, resilient, and sustainable housing to meet the needs of the community and the planet,” said Cassidy.
“Every Australian deserves a home that is safe, comfortable, and enhances their quality of life. 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 also urged for more investment in circular economy education and training, and more funding for making public buildings more accessible. It stated, “accessibility goes beyond mere compliance with standards; it involves creating environments that are usable and welcoming for everyone, regardless of physical ability. This requires a holistic approach that incorporates universal design principles at the core of all public infrastructure projects.”
Source: Architecture - architectureau
