MEDIA RELEASE
Thursday 14 October 2010
Architects welcome appointment of
SA Government Architect
Today’s appointment of a South Australian
Government Architect represents a welcome and
necessary ‘next step’ to safeguard and optimise the
State’s future growth.
Applauding the SA Government’s announcement earlier today, the Australian
Institute of Architects’ SA President David Holland said the long awaited
move was a major win for all South Australians.
“We commend the State Government for the appointment, which signals a
continuation of their recent public commitment to the best built environment
outcomes for South Australia,” Mr Holland said.
“The appointment of Sydney architect Ben Hewett is a vital follow-up to the
formation late last year of the Integrated Design Commission (IDC), and recent
appointment of Tim Horton as SA Integrated Design Commissioner.”
“While South Australia is the last State in Australia to appoint a Government
Architect, with the value of this role recognised in most States for some time, we
are confident that the State Government has now developed a nation-leading
design model.
“The Integrated Design Commission offers the strongest national model for
integrated design excellence, and will be a key initiative in enhancing the quality
of Adelaide’s growth over the next 30 years.
“On top of this, we expect to benefit from Ben Hewett’s independence as a
respected interstate professional, with experience in both practice and academia.
We look forward to working with him and anticipate that Ben’s appointment will
see a strong emphasis on practice-based research and innovation.”
Since the establishment of the IDC, we have seen a greater focus on design
within government procurement policy and, with this appointment, expect to see
more changes toward a true ‘integrated design approach’ ”
David Holland was appointed SA Chapter President in July and is a strong advocate for sustainability
and for the adaptive reuse of existing heritage and non-heritage building. He is a passionate advocate
for the profession, seeking a collaborative, common sense, and practical approach to the resolution of
matters. He is a Director of DASH Architects (Danvers Schulz Holland Architects Pty Ltd)
For more information: Australian Institute of Architects
Trish Croaker, National Media Advisor
0408 756 163
E trish.croaker@raia.com.au
David Holland, SA President
0417 399 957
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The Australian Institute of Architects is the peak body for the architectural profession, representing
more than 9500 members across Australia and overseas. The Institute actively works to improve the
quality of our built environment by promoting quality, responsible and sustainable design. Visit the
Institute at architecture.com.au
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