From the CEO

From the CEO

We have just confirmed more great speakers for BEMP, which takes place in our national capital in a fortnight. Paul Low, Tim Fischer and Warren Mundy will join the Hon Greg Hunt MP, the Hon Jamie Briggs MP, Professor John Thwaites, Senator Scott Ludlam, Tania Cox, Professor Barbara Norman, Brendan Nelson, Garry Bowditch, Rene Van Meeuwen and Michael Rayner from Cox Architects.

Themed Productivity by Design, BEMP 2014 turns the spotlight on a new generation of design solutions that will unlock waves of economic and social dividends in our cities.

If you haven’t already, I encourage you to register for this fantastic summit – it provides a rare opportunity for the profession to engage with politicians directly about the built environment.

A few months ago, we launched the Australian Institute of Architects Foundation. We are currently seeking patrons and donors for this great initiative that has been established to promote the benefits of architecture and design to the wider community through national programs.

Chaired by former Director of the Art Galley of NSW, Edmund Capon, the Foundation will focus on projects that positively impact our communities through architecture and design including exhibitions, scholarships and education programs.

The Foundation’s inaugural program is the Droga Architect in Residence. The first of its kind in the southern hemisphere, the residency invites international architects to participate in a three month program to encourage the exploration of new approaches, the exchange of ideas, international collaboration and cross fertilisation.

More information about becoming a Foundation patron or supporter can be found here.

Getting quality air time for the issues that concern our profession is a challenge in our digital age.

It is fantastic that on July 16 our Griffin Lecture will be held at the National Press Club and televised nationally on the ABC.

An occasion such as this calls for a speaker of great renown and we welcome Clover Moore, Mayor of the City of Sydney, who will address one of the most pressing issues of our time: Should cities rule the world?

This event heralds in a new era for the Griffin Lecture. The National Press Club series will feature a stellar line up of high profile guest speakers, tackling the most urgent and thorny issues facing our profession and the community. More information about this event can be found here.

Kind regards,
David.

David Parken, CEO.