The title 'architect' has become protected by law, with only qualified registered architects able to legitimately call themselves an architect as a result of new legislation covering South Australia's architectural services.
The change offers greater certainty to consumers about the architectural skills and expertise they are buying, with other professionals including draftsmen and building designers now prevented from promoting themselves as architects.
"To register as an architect, a person must have graduated from a minimum five year accredited university course, completed specific practical experience and passed the Registration Board's exams," said Timothy Horton, SA President of the Australian Institute of Architects.
Soon to follow are regulations expected to deliver guidelines for professional standards, including mandatory professional indemnity insurance and a requirement for continuing professional development by all architects.
NSW and Tasmania are currently the only states mandating annual education for registered architects, to be joined by WA and Victoria on July 1.
