The Australian Institute of Architects’ National Council has just announced a set of measures to adapt and concentrate the organisations resources following a review of the Institute’s business model.

Guided by the imperative that the Institute delivers equitable value to members, the profession and the community, National Council has agreed on amending the focus of the Institute’s resources on three core areas: membership services, advocacy and education.

In response to this streamlined strategy and ahead of the new year, National Council in consultation with stake holder representatives has outlined changes that include the closure of Architext bookstores in Melbourne and Sydney, and the closure of the Newcastle office.

‘These decisions have been difficult but are necessary and part of a broader change process that will ensure the best and most equitable use of the Institute’s resources. The provision of timely and relevant members’ services remains paramount to our focus with 2016 no doubt shaping up to be a challenging but rewarding year,’ National President Jon Clements said in communications to members, councillors and staff.

‘Many bricks-and-mortar retailers have been hit by online retail, but bookselling has been hit harder still with e-books and the internet radically changing the publishing industry. Architext has not been immune from these pressures and is no longer sustainable as a business.’

Architext will close its stores in Sydney and Melbourne on 31 March 2016. It is the end of an era, but the Institute is committed to ensuring that all of its members have equitable access to quality specialist books and publications. The organisation is currently exploring partnerships with select bookshops nationally. Contracts will be available online and from Chapter offices.

Newcastle and NSW Country Divisions operations, currently based in Newcastle, will relocate to the NSW Chapter offices.

‘The Divisions, its committees and members are passionate and engaged, and its initiatives and events perform well. However, while the office has provided valued services to the Divisions for many years, in the current climate we are unable to support the significant costs associated with running a stand-alone office. The relocation will take immediate effect. In addition, the activities provided by the two Newcastle-based staff will be absorbed by the NSW Chapter, which will lift its resources to cater to the extra requirements this change brings about.

‘National Council recognises the enormous support and commitment from the Division Committees in regional NSW. We acknowledge in particular the work of both Chairs, Sarah Aldridge and Debra McKendry-Hunt, who have been strong advocates for both Divisions. National Council is equally committed to ensuring that the 2016 planned regional programs continue with direct support from the NSW Chapter and wider Institute, Mr Clements said.