The 2021 NSCA Explanatory Notes, launched on 15 November 2021, is the first time such a comprehensive practical guide has been produced.
This new resource follows the release in July of the new National Standard of Competency for Architects (NSCA), which places a greater focus on more meaningful engagement with First Nations Peoples and sustainable practice.

With the 2021 NSCA, we set an exciting and timely new benchmark for the architectural profession.

The new and updated competencies result from extensive consultation and reflect the dynamism inherent in how architecture is practiced. They respond to a planet under threat from a changing climate. Crucially, they also recognise the need to engage more meaningfully with First Nations Peoples, especially when it comes to caring for Country.

The Explanatory Notes provide an unprecedented level of real, practical support in meeting these competencies. This is the first time AACA has produced a resource of this nature that delivers such a value add to the profession. It will make a substantial difference to the comprehension and understanding for graduates, academics, registrants and practicing architects of these core components of the 2021 NSCA.

The AACA acknowledges the tremendous work and expertise of Dr Danièle Hromek (Budawang/Yuin) and Vanessa Dudman in writing and developing the content as well as the input and guidance from the AACA National Advisory Panel, the AACA Architectural Practice Exam National Convenors, the AACA program working groups, the Australian Institute of Architects’ First Nations Working Group, and the Climate Action and Sustainability Taskforce.

The ACCA pays tribute to my predecessor in the role of CEO, Kate Doyle, under whose leadership the 2021 NSCA was instigated and which will now be enriched by the addition of the Explanatory Notes.