The Australian Institute of Architects says architects should be engaged to ensure design innovation and sustainability are at the forefront of the planned $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF), following a political agreement between Labor and the Greens to pass the bill in the Senate.
On Monday, 11 September, Greens leader Adam Bandt announced support for the fund, which proposes the delivery of 30,000 social and affordable rental homes in five years.
Institute national president Stuart Tanner said any new housing developed under the planned legislation should meet climate and livability requirements to ensure durability and longevity.
He said it is imperative that the quality of homes being delivered is not impacted or compromised by the quantity and any associated time pressures.
“We need good housing, not any housing,” Tanner said.
“People deserve livable housing that is more than just a roof over one’s head. These dwellings must be high-quality builds that will not only serve this generation but the generations to come. That is a fundamental aspect of sustainability.”
Anne Street Garden Villas by Anna O’Gorman Architect received a National Award for Multiple Housing at the 2022 National Architecture Awards.
Image: Christopher Frederick Jones
Tanner said involving registered architects throughout the development process would assist with ensuring designs are future-oriented and lasting.
“Architects develop housing that focuses on livability,” he said.
“Our members are design professionals, they know how to make the most of a budget through orientation, cost-effective and sustainable materials and design. Architects also have the professional expertise to steward the entire process, including construction.”
The Institute rejected calls for shortcuts and watered down approaches to design, saying that sacrificing quality would end up costing more in the long run.
“It will not save money if the building requires substantial retrofitting because of poor material choice, orientation or execution in the building stage,” Tanner said.
The Institute extended an invitation to federal ministers to show them examples of architecturally designed social and affordable housing models, which have incorporated functional, resilient and sustainable design elements.
St Albans Housing by NMBW Architecture Studio in association with Monash Art, Design and Architecture (MADA) received a National Commendation in the 2022 National Architecture Awards.
Image: Peter Bennetts
“Having grown up in government housing himself, the prime minister would be amazed at what architect-designed social and affordable housing can provide today,” Tanner said.
“We will invite Anthony Albanese and Julie Collins to visit the great work our members are doing. The value of good design goes beyond aesthetics. Good design ensures resilient communities.
“Architects are positive, innovative and adaptable. We strive to future proof our built environment to lead to quality and longevity. Do it once and do it well.”
