Architects Registration Board of Victoria annual report 2020-21

I am pleased to present the annual report of the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV) for the 2020-21 financial year. The 2020-21 year was a period of hard work and achievements, culminating in June 2021 with the ARBV completing a cycle of strategic and organisational initiatives and delivering key performance measures set out in the Statement of Expectations (SOE) for 2019-2021, issued in August 2019 by the Minister for Planning, The Hon. Richard Wynne.

The ARBV has continued to strengthen its position as a contemporary and trusted regulator. Today, the ARBV is in a strong position to act with timeliness in its decision-making and communications, effectively apply risk-based regulatory strategies in the delivery of its operations, as well as respond to current and emerging compliance issues. The ARBV has produced educative guidance material and information to support regulated entities to comply with their obligations, worked co-operatively with other regulators, engaged with its stakeholders, and remained accountable and transparent as a financially sound and independent public entity.

This annual report outlines in detail the fulfilment of these achievements.

Undeterred by the disruptions of the global pandemic, the ARBV never lost sight of the performance measures in the Ministerial SOE and used its best efforts to fulfil them. Working and engaging remotely all year, staff continued to carry out their duties supporting the ARBV to effectively and efficiently perform its statutory function to administer the Architects Act 1991 (Vic) and the Architects Regulations 2015. The ARBV has also continued to engage daily with all its registered architects through its newly launched website and several communication channels.

While critical activities continued as business-as-usual in a coronavirus (COVID-19) context, the Board and senior staff worked to revise and refine ARBV’s comprehensive regulatory framework. This work saw the release of a suite of Regulatory Strategy documents in June 2021 that frame the principles, priorities, and procedures necessary to guide a risk-based approach to the regulation of the profession of architecture.

The complexity of the contemporary built environment demands that regulators discern general trends and patterns emerging from individual cases. Awareness of this need led the Board to review and enhance both the static and dynamic risk assessments in the Regulatory Strategy and develop a new proactive campaign, which will be informed and refined by data collected about current and emerging risks.

The new Customer Relationship Management system (CRM) will be critical for implementing future proactive initiatives. The ARBV commissioned this capital investment in digital infrastructure, launching it with great effort from all staff within the short period of 6 months. The CRM provides a more user-friendly interface for architects in their dealings with the ARBV and a more robust and efficient IT platform for staff. Over the medium and long term, the CRM will be a valuable instrument to elicit data and research concerning the regulation of the profession in Victoria.

The 2020-21 year was also notable for 2 milestones related to professional education. For the first time, all Victorian architects were required to complete a mandatory declaration that they complied with Continuing Professional Development (CPD) obligations. The benefits and imperatives of continual professional education are unquestionable.

Committing to undertake CPD is a social responsibility, is consistent with the national framework and will provide more confidence and reassurance to the public about the competence of architects.

The second milestone relevant to professional education was the development of a set of ARBV Guidelines under Regulation 7 of the Architects Regulations 2015 on professional conduct and practice for architects. The Guidelines are a new resource for Victorian architects published on the ARBV website, complementing a large body of existing resources and materials available. The Guidelines underline matters of professional conduct and guide architects on best practice and obligations they must comply with under the Architects Act 1991(Vic) and Architects Regulations 2015 (including the Victorian Architects Code of Professional Conduct).

The ARBV continues to work closely with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, the Victorian Building Authority and numerous industry and representative bodies and has been working towards establishing an Industry and Consumer Forum, for the purpose of gathering insights, perspectives and ultimately intelligence from multiple stakeholders. Enduring channels of constructive dialogue and engagement are always open with key representatives of the architectural profession, such as the Australian Institute of Architects, the Association of Consulting Architects, ArchiTeam Co, the Office of the Victorian Government Architect, the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia, and the Registration Boards of other states and territories.

The achievements completed and ongoing activities progressed in this busy period cannot be attributed to any one individual. Rather, they reflect the collective effort of the entire organisation. Progress and developments at the ARBV in 2020-21, completed or ongoing as an enduring legacy, also represent the fruit of the service of colleagues who completed their terms of office on the Board during this period, including former Chairperson, Karen Alcock, who led the ARBV with admirable energy and flawless dedication, and committed Board members Stuart Brown, Catherine Duggan and David Islip.

I wish to acknowledge with appreciation the work and leadership of all the ARBV staff, including the Interim Registrar, Allan Bawden, who filled the leadership position until the role was permanently filled with the appointment of our current Chief Executive Officer and Registrar, Dr Glenice Fox. The appointment of Dr Fox has brought a stimulating atmosphere to the organisation.

Her leadership inspires trust and confidence in the ability of the ARBV to continue growing over the long term, starting with the implementation of a new set of performance measures set out in the Ministerial Statement of Expectations for 2021-23.

I am pleased to introduce the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV) report of operations for the year ended 30 June 2021.

The 2020-21 year was very busy and productive for the ARBV’s Board and small team of staff.

From July 2020 to June 2021, the ARBV conducted 2 APE sessions and one postponed APE session involving more than 400 candidates, granted registration or approval to 403 architects, companies and partnerships and managed the registration for over 9,000 regulated entities, including 6,228 renewals and 193 requests to change class of registration. The ARBV also initiated a total of 131 investigations relating to professional conduct and prohibited conduct, referred 2 matters for inquiry to the Architects Tribunal, and responded to one application to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for review of a determination by the Board.

In addition, the ARBV completed several significant strategic and operational initiatives in line with its ongoing focus on achieving a best practice approach to regulation of architects and a commitment to being a strong and effective regulator.

Underpinning everything is the ARBV’s purpose to protect the community interest and instil confidence in the regulation, integrity and delivery of architectural services in Victoria. The regulatory regime for architects administered by the ARBV embeds many key features to enhance regulatory outcomes – effective practitioner registration to hold architects to high professional standards and to scrutinise the risk of non-compliance, a broad and robust competency framework to ensure architects have relevant practical experience, and a well-established disciplinary process to address unprofessional conduct. Over the past 2 years, ARBV has invested significant time, resources and effort in enhancing its regulatory approach to ensure that it is targeted and risk-based and minimises regulatory burden while maximising protection for consumers of architectural services.

Implementing the performance improvements set out in the Ministerial Statement of Expectations (SOE) for 2019-21 continued to be a strong driver in setting the ARBV’s strategic and operational agenda and priorities. Other drivers were the key priorities in the Business Plan and an ongoing focus on achieving the key strategies in the 3-year Corporate Plan for 2019-22.

To ensure that it keeps pace with sectoral changes, and recognising the emergence of systemic risks, the ARBV revised its risk-based Regulatory Strategy, and developed a new risk profiling framework, which will enhance the application of a risk-based approach to regulation. A proactive strategic plan was also developed to focus on key current risks and includes engagement with consumers, particularly in compliance areas where the risk of non-compliance has been assessed as relatively high. To measure the success of its regulatory performance, the ARBV also developed a performance monitoring framework, to ensure that it continuously improves as a regulator.

To facilitate the successful delivery of the Regulatory Strategy and the Corporate Plan, the ARBV has reviewed its staffing model and organisational structure. A realigned organisational structure was approved in June 2021 and will come into operation in 2021-22.

In response to the SOE and to improve regulatory outcomes, several other initiatives were implemented in 2020-21 including a Customer Relationship Management system (CRM) to digitise key business processes and improve data analytics; and a new more user-friendly website integrated with the CRM. The ARBV also developed guidance material for use by architects and consumers, co-operated with co-regulators to share information and insights, led the National Registrars Forum and implemented a communications and stakeholder engagement strategy.

In 2020-21, the ARBV refreshed processes, procedures and policies to implement amendments to the Architects Act 1991 (Vic), which took effect from July 2020. These amendments strengthened the ARBV’s powers to regulate the professional conduct of architects and thereby protect the public. The new powers included the introduction of the fit and proper person test, the requirement for architects to comply with continuing professional development requirements and introduction of a number of grounds on which the Board may immediately suspend the registration of regulated entities. Powers to gather information were also expanded.

At the end of the reporting period, the ARBV’s financial resources remained sound. As a self-funded regulator, the ARBV relies almost entirely on the revenue it receives from registration fees to fund its operations. Registration fees have not substantively increased since 2013. To implement its Regulatory Strategy, including launching its proactive strategic plan in 2021-22, and respond to the performance objectives set out in the SOE for 2021-23, an increase in revenue may be required. The ARBV will work with its responsible portfolio agency, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning to assess the need to implement a review of fees.

Ongoing reform of the building and construction industry, both within Victoria and nationally, may impact on the regulatory environment for architects. At the close of the reporting period, the independent Expert Panel tasked by the Victorian Government with conducting a comprehensive review of Victoria’s building regulatory system, was preparing a final report and recommendations to the Minister for Planning. It is anticipated that the Panel’s recommendations will be released in 2021-22. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is also likely to have impacts for the architectural profession and its activities, although the full extent of those impacts and implications for the regulatory environment are still difficult to gauge.

During the reporting year, the term of office of 5 Board members expired and at the close of 2020-21, several appointments were still pending. I wish to thank both Karen Alcock and Dr Giorgio Marfella for their leadership and commitment in the role of Chairperson, and all members of the Board for the support extended to me since my appointment.

In closing, I wish to acknowledge Allan Bawden’s contribution to the ARBV stepping into the role of interim CEO/Registrar for many months and ensuring the organisation remained focused on achieving its strategic and operational priorities. I also extend a particular thank you to the ARBV’s small and dedicated team of staff for their excellent contributions to ARBV’s work in the 2020-21 year.

Establishment and role

Established in 1923 the ARBV is a self-funded Victorian public sector entity.

The Architects Act 1991 (Vic) (the Act) establishes the framework for the regulation of architects in Victoria and has as its purposes:

• to provide for the registration of architects
• to provide for the approval of partnerships and companies providing architectural services
• to regulate the professional conduct of architects
• to provide a procedure for handling complaints against architects
• to regulate the use of the terms “architect”, “architectural services”, “architectural design services” and “architectural design”
• to establish the Architects Registration Board of Victoria.

Accountability

The ARBV is accountable to the Minister for Planning, who is accountable to Parliament and the community for the performance of the ARBV. The Minister for Planning also establishes key governance and performance priorities for the ARBV through a Statement of Expectations. In overseeing the performance of the ARBV, the Minister for Planning is supported by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.

Functions

The ARBV’s statutory functions include:

• assessing and determining applications for registration
• from individuals and applications for approval from partnerships and companies
• suspending and cancelling registrations or approvals and revoking suspensions where required
• regulating the professional conduct of architects, approved partnerships and approved companies
• preparing guidelines on professional conduct and practice for architects, approved partnerships and approved companies
• publishing information relating to the operation of the ARBV and the Act
• together with the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA), administering the Architectural Practice Examination, the most common pathway to registration
• accrediting architectural programs of study within Victoria, in accordance with the established Architecture Program Accreditation Procedure in Australia and New Zealand administered by the AACA and in doing so, determining qualifications required for registration under the Act
• investigating and bringing proceedings for offences against the Act
• carrying out any other powers and functions which are given to it by the Act or which are necessary to implement the Act.

Our purpose

To protect the community interest and instil confidence in the regulation, integrity and delivery of architectural services in Victoria.

Our values

The ARBV operates in accordance with the Victorian Public Sector Values of:

• Responsiveness
• Integrity
• Impartiality
• Accountability
• Respect
• Leadership
• Human Rights

Our success measures

• A capable, compliant and informed profession
• A community that understands the role of architects and the ARBV
• A modern, trusted and connected regulator
• A regulatory framework that drives strong outcomes

2020-21 highlights

Registration

• 315 new architect registrants with numbers decreased from the previous year, which is likely a flow on from the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) environment
• 8,108 architects registered (practising and non-practising)
• 193 requests from architects for change of class (practising and non- practising) has remained steady, which is attributed to correct classification messaging and coronavirus (COVID-19) impacts
• 418 graduates registered for the Architectural Practice Examination
• 403 registration related applications processed and completed
• 88 new company registrations processed and completed
• 14 Financial Hardship Applications seeking assistance through deferral on the payment of 2021-22 renewal fees received
• 82% of architects’ 2020-21 renewal fees were paid by the 1 July 2021 due date

Compliance

• 67 professional conduct investigations initiated comprising both reactive and proactive investigations
• 2 professional conduct matters referred to the Architects Tribunal for inquiry
• 1 inquiry completed by the Architects Tribunal resulting in adverse findings
• 63 professional conduct investigations completed and not referred for inquiry
• 14 professional conduct investigations completed and not referred for inquiry, but written advice provided
• 64 prohibited conduct investigations initiated

2020-21 in Review

In 2020-21, the ARBV continued to enhance the delivery of its core functions and implemented several initiatives to improve regulatory outcomes and deliver its purpose to protect the community interest and instil confidence in the regulation, integrity and delivery of architectural services in Victoria.

Despite the coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions and working remotely, ARBV’s dedicated and capable team of staff worked with the Board on a very busy program of work focused on achieving best practice regulation, with several ongoing projects and key initiatives finalised or close to finalisation.

Priority areas focused on by ARBV in 2020-21 included:

• revising the risk-based Regulatory Strategy and regulatory objectives underpinning the strategy and developing a proactive strategic plan, performance monitoring framework and risk profiling framework
• embracing digital processes and improved data analytics by implementing a fit for purpose Customer Relationship Management system (CRM) operational for 2021-22 annual renewal of registration
• launching a new more user-friendly website integrated with the CRM sharing the Victorian Government Single Digital Presence platform
• developing guidance material for use by architects and consumers available on the website
• providing leadership of the National Registrars Forum and co-operating with co-regulators to share information and insights
• building on relationships with key stakeholders and Government
• supporting Government improvement initiatives and participating in consultation processes exploring sectoral reforms
• developing policies, processes and procedures to support delivery of core services
• establishing a dedicated human resources function
• workforce planning and assessing resources to ensure the organisational structure will enable ARBV to deliver its regulatory responsibilities and meet its obligations as a contemporary regulator
• building improved and effective communications with consumers and architects
• enhancing financial systems, processes and reporting and approach to risk management
• improving Board systems and processes
• working on relocating the office premises due to the redevelopment of the old site, ensuring appropriate facilities for staff and those attending for examinations, disciplinary hearings and other business.

The above focus by ARBV ensured that the expectations contained in the Ministerial Statement of Expectations for 2019-2021 relating to key governance and performance priorities were largely met, despite the challenges created by coronavirus (COVID-19).

Financial performance and business review

In 2020-2021, the ARBV recorded a net surplus of $67,851 which was a $238,562 improvement on the net deficit of $170,711 in 2019-2020.

Revenue increased by $316,577 due primarily to applications and registration income increasing by $161,661 and examination income increasing by $169,465, the latter being a result of:

• coronavirus (COVID-19) impacts, which forced examinations planned for 2019-2020 to be rescheduled to 2020-2021
• exam fee increases to recover cost increases for externally facilitated exams
• an increase to the number of exam participants.

Expenditure increased by $78,015 which included:

• employee expense increases of $105,390, including Enterprise Agreement back payments, recruitment and training and reinstatement of payroll tax post coronavirus (COVID-19) relief programs
• professional (consulting) services increases of $102,688 including:
  • procurement, tendering and implementation support for a new
  • Customer Relationship Management system (CRM)
  • assistance with the revision of ARBV’s Regulatory Strategy
• examination increases of $32,485 reflecting an increase in exam participants
• depreciation increases of $22,381 due primarily to depreciation on the Right of Use building lease.

Offsetting these increases, were reductions totalling $179,068 compared to 2019-2020 for legal services, administration (including information technology) and occupancy expenses.

Financial position

Net assets increased to $1,348,654 as a result of the net surplus for the year.

Total assets increased by $545,735 and total liabilities increased by $477,930 relative to 2019-2020. A Right of Use asset for the lease of new premises is recognised at $619,218 and is offset on the liabilities side of the balance sheet by a lease liability of $620,650.

Cash is lower by $239,812 largely reflecting the $180,089 increase in intangible assets (CRM and website), the net cash outflow of $40,326 from operating activities and the purchase of minor plant and equipment totalling $19,352.

Income received in advance (fees) reduced by $200,595 due primarily to implementing a new CRM resulting in a delay in the yearly renewal process.

The annual financial statements have been prepared using the going concern basis of accounting.

ARBV 5-year financial summary

Notes:

1. Sponsorships and donations are included in the net result for the period.

Financial management compliance attestation statement

ARBV financial management attestation statement 2020-21

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Financial statement

ARBV financial statement 2020-21

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ARBV Board

The ARBV Board is established under section 47 of the Architects Act 1991 (Vic) and can have up to 10 members, each of whom is appointed by the Governor in Council on a representative basis.

The Board sets the strategic framework for the achievement of the ARBV’s objectives and the execution of its functions. The Board does this by overseeing strategic planning, policy development, auditing and compliance, prudent financial management, fostering stakeholder relationships and reviewing management performance. The Board is also responsible for exercising decision-making powers under the Architects Act 1991 (Vic) and the Architects Regulations 2015. Management of the operations and administration of the ARBV is delegated by the Board to the Registrar.

Board committees

The Board is supported by 2 committees:

Audit and Risk Committee

The purpose of the Audit and Risk Committee is to assist the Board to fulfil its statutory oversight responsibilities relating to the Financial Management Act 1994 (Vic) (FMA) and associated Standing Directions 2018 issued by the Assisted Treasurer under Section 8 of the FMA. Members of the Audit and Risk Committee are reviewed and appointed annually by the Board in accordance with the Committee’s Charter.

Meetings are held at least 4 times a year, and at other times on request of a committee member or the internal or external auditor. The Committee’s key responsibilities are to:

• assist the Board in reviewing the effectiveness of the ARBV’s internal control environment, covering effectiveness and efficiency of operations, reliability of financial reporting and compliance with applicable laws and regulations
• review the annual financial statements and make a recommendation to the Board as to whether to adopt the statements reviewing information in the report of operations on financial management, performance and sustainability
• determine the scope of the internal audit function and ensure its resources are adequate and used effectively, including coordination with external auditors
• maintain effective communication with external auditors, consider recommendations made by internal and external auditors, and review the implementation of actions to resolve issues raised
• oversee the effective operation of the risk management framework.

Members of the Audit and Risk Committee as at 30 June 2021 were: Mark Anderson (Independent Chair), Karen Alcock and Dr Giorgio Marfella. Stuart Brown was a member of the Committee until his ARBV Board term of office expired 17 June 2021.

Human Resources Committee

The purpose of the Human Resources Committee is to assist the Board to fulfil its obligations relating to human resource and remuneration policy and related matters and for the management of the Registrar’s contract and performance review consistent with the policies of the Government’s Remuneration Tribunal.

Members of the Human Resources Committee at 30 June 2021 were Karen Alcock, Richard Salter and Catherine Duggan.

Board and committee meeting attendances

Number of meetings attended/eligible to attend in 2020-21

Compliance

This section includes disclosures required by the Financial Management Act 1994 (Vic), the Architects Act 1991 (Vic), the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2012 (Vic), Disability Act 2006 (Vic) and the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic). It also includes voluntary disclosure of additional regulatory compliance information.

Manner of establishment and Responsible Minister

The ARBV is established under the Architects Act 1991 (Vic). The Responsible Minister for the period from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 was the Hon. Richard Wynne MP, Minister for Planning.

Accountability of the ARBV

Pursuant to section 46 of the Architects Act 1991 (Vic), the ARBV is required to exercise its powers and perform its duties under the Act.

Additionally, the ARBV is required to advise the Minister on the carrying out of its functions under the Act and on any other matter referred to it by the Minister and is subject to any specific written directions given by the Minister.

The ARBV is required under the Public Administration Act 2004 (Vic) to:

• Inform the Responsible Minister and the portfolio Secretary (Department Environment, Land, Water and Planning) of known major risks (significant or emerging) to the effective operation of the ARBV and of the risk management systems that it has in place to address those risks.
• Provide the Responsible Minister, unless prohibited from doing so by or under any law, with any information relating to the ARBV or its operations as he or she requests.

Ministerial Directions

No Ministerial Directions were given during the reporting year 2020-21.

ARBV’s powers and duties

The ARBV’s powers and duties are found in section 46 of the Architects Act 1991 (Vic).

Subsequent events

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has created unprecedented uncertainty of the economic environment. Actual economic events and conditions in future may be materially different from those estimated by the entity at the reporting date. In the event the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic impacts are more severe or prolonged than anticipated, this may have further impacts on the entity.

In assessing the impacts of coronavirus (COVID-19) on ARBV as a going concern, VAGO concluded that due to the nature of ARBV’s operations, coronavirus (COVID-19) represented an insignificant impact on ARBV.

As at the date of signing, there were no subsequent events after balance date expected to have a material effect on the financial statements of ARBV that are not otherwise disclosed in the financial statements and notes.

Significant changes or factors affecting performance

There were no significant changes or factors affecting ARBV’s performance during the reporting period. Remote working by staff and other measures allowed ARBV to operate without significant impacts on its performance.

Access to information

The ARBV discloses information online and via printed publications. It also provides information services in person and/or by phone, annual report and website.

Government advertising expenditure

There were no advertising campaigns with a media spend of $100,000 or greater.

Asset Management Accountability Framework (AMAF) maturity assessment

The following summarises the ARBV’s assessment of maturity against the requirements of the Asset Management Accountability Framework (AMAF). The AMAF is a non-prescriptive, devolved accountability model of asset management that requires compliance with 41 mandatory requirements.

The ARBV’s target maturity rating is ‘competence’, meaning systems and processes fully in place, consistently applied and systematically meeting the AMAF requirement, including a continuous improvement process to expand system performance above AMAF minimum requirements.

Compliance and Maturity rating tool

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Disclosure of major contracts

The ARBV did not enter into any major contracts during 2020-21.

A major contract is a contract entered into during the reporting period valued at $10m or more.

Public Sector Values and employment principles

The ARBV has embedded the employment principles as set out in section 8 of the Public Administration Act 2004 (Vic) (PAA) into its Human Resources Policies and Procedures Manual. The manual’s employment policies and practices are consistent with the principles e.g. merit and equity with regards to selection processes to ensure that applicants are assessed and evaluated fairly and equitably based on key selection criteria and other accountabilities without discrimination.

The ARBV has adopted and published for the purposes of its Corporate Plan for 2019 to 2022, the Victorian Public Sector Values of:

• Responsiveness
• Integrity
• Impartiality
• Accountability
• Respect
• Leadership
• Human Rights

Workforce data

Appendix 2 provides details of the 2020-21 workforce data for the ARBV.

See Workforce data.

Occupational health and safety

The goal of the ARBV’s occupational health and safety (OH&S) policy is to ensure all staff (and others accessing the ARBV’s premises) remain safe and healthy at work with a continued commitment to OH&S compliance, active risks and hazards assessment and control.

The ARBV’s OH&S management system which is aimed at enhancing safety performance and ensuring safe systems of work requires an annual review (or more frequently if required e.g. office changes) of the identified hazards and safety risks and the procedures for dealing with the identified risks. A focus on mental wellbeing is also part of the ARBV’s strategy.

The ARBV’s target for 2020-21 was for zero OH&S incidents leading to claims which was achieved. No incidents, hazards or near misses were reported during the 2020-21 year.

Based on the 2020-21 claims experience and increased remuneration associated with additional staffing, the ARBV’s premium rate for 2021-22 is 0.5631%. This is below the applicable State Government Administration industry classification premium rate of 0.5790%, which is 2.74% better than the industry average.

Freedom of Information Act 1982

The Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic) (the Act) allows the public a right of access to documents held by the ARBV. The purpose of the Act is to extend as far as possible the right of the community to access information held by government departments, local councils, Ministers and other bodies subject to the Act.

An applicant has a right to apply for access to documents held by the ARBV. This comprises documents both created by the ARBV or supplied to the ARBV by an external organisation or individual. Information about the type of material produced by the ARBV is available on the ARBV’s website under its Part II Information Statement.

The Act allows the ARBV to refuse access, either fully or partially, to certain documents or information.

Examples of documents that may not be accessed include but not limited to cabinet documents; some internal working documents; law enforcement documents; documents covered by legal professional privilege, such as legal advice; personal information about other people; and information provided to the ARBV in-confidence.

The Act allows for 30 days of Freedom of Information (FOI) processing times. However, when external consultation is required under subsections 29, 29A, 31, 31A. 33, 34 or 35, the processing time automatically reverts to 45 days. Processing time may also be extended by periods of 30 days, in consultation with the applicant. With the applicant’s agreement this may occur any number of times. However, obtaining an applicant’s agreement for an extension cannot occur after the expiry of the time frame for deciding a request.

If an applicant is not satisfied by a decision made by the ARBV, under section 49A of the Act, they have the right to seek a review by the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC) within 28 days of receiving a decision letter.

Making a request

FOI requests can be lodged in writing to the ARBV via email or post. An application fee of $30.10 applies. Access charges may also be payable if the document pool is large, and the search for material, time consuming.

Access to documents can also be obtained through a written request to the ARBV as detailed in section 17 of the Act.

When making an FOI request, applicants should ensure requests are in writing, and clearly identify what types of material/documents are being sought.

Requests for documents in the possession of the ARBV should be addressed to:

ARBV Registrar
Level 10, 533 Little Lonsdale Street
Melbourne 3000

You can also email registrar@arbv.vic.gov.au.

FOI statistics/timeliness

During 2020–21, the ARBV received 3 FOI applications, the details of which are as follows:

• one application received was a personal request
• one application received was a non-personal request
• one request was granted access in full within the requirements of section 21 of the Act
• one request was withdrawn, as the applicant was able to access the information via a certified extract of the register (see Regulation 19 of the Architects Regulations 2015).

One request remains the subject of a VCAT appeal.

Further information

Further information regarding the operation and scope of FOI can be obtained from the Act; regulations made under the Act; and ovic.vic.gov.au. The ARBV’s Part II statement can be found on the ARBV website.

Competitive neutrality policy

Competitive neutrality requires government businesses to ensure where services compete, or potentially compete with the private sector, any advantage arising solely from their government ownership be removed if it is not in the public interest. Government businesses are required to cost and price these services as if they were privately owned. Competitive neutrality policy supports fair competition between public and private businesses and provides government businesses with a tool to enhance decisions on resource allocation. This policy does not override other policy objectives of government and focuses on efficiency in the provision of service.

The ARBV continues to comply with the requirements on competitive neutrality reporting as required under the Competition Principles Agreement and Competition and Infrastructure Reform Agreement.

Public Interest Disclosures Act 2012 (Vic)

The Public Interest Disclosures Act 2012 (Vic) encourages and assists people in making disclosures of improper conduct by public officers and public bodies. The Act provides protection to people who make disclosures in accordance with the Act and establishes a system for the matters disclosed to be investigated and rectifying action to be taken.

The ARBV does not tolerate improper conduct by employees, nor the taking of reprisals against those who come forward to disclose such conduct. It is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in its administrative and management practices and supports the making of disclosures that reveal corrupt conduct, conduct involving a substantial mismanagement of public resources, or conduct involving a substantial risk to public health and safety or the environment.

The ARBV will take all reasonable steps to protect people who make such disclosures from any detrimental action in reprisal for making the disclosure. It will also afford natural justice to the person who is the subject of the disclosure to the extent it is legally possible.

Reporting procedures

You can make a public interest disclosure about the ARBV or its board members, officers or employees by contacting IBAC:

• Address: Level 1, North Tower, 459 Collins Street Melbourne, VIC 3000
• Mail: IBAC, GPO Box 24234, Melbourne Victoria 3001
• Phone: 1300 735 135
• Website: https://www.ibac.vic.gov.au/
• Email: See the website above for the secure email disclosure process, which also provides for anonymous disclosures.

The ARBV is not able to receive public interest disclosures.

The ARBV has established procedures for the protection of persons from detrimental action in reprisal for making a public interest disclosure about the ARBV, its board members, officers or employees. You can access the ARBV’s procedures on our website.

Additional information available on request

In compliance with the requirements of the Standing Directions 2018 of the Minister for Finance, details in respect of the items listed below, where applicable to the ARBV, have been retained and are available on request, subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic):

• details of publications produced by the ARBV about itself, and how these can be obtained
• details of major promotional, public relations and marketing activities undertaken by the ARBV to develop community awareness of the entity and its services
• details of changes in prices, fees, charges, rates and levies charged
• a statement on industrial relations within ARBV
• details of all consultancies and contractors, including consultants/ contractors engaged, services provided, and expenditure committed for each engagement.

The information is available on request from:

ARBV Registrar, Level 10, 533 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne 3000

You can also email registrar@arbv.vic.gov.au.

Additional information included in annual report

Details in respect of the following items have been included in the ARBV’s annual report, on the pages indicated below:

• a list of the ARBV’s major committees, the purposes of each committee, and the extent to which the purposes have been achieved (on page 90)
• statements of completion of declarations of pecuniary interests by relevant officers (on page 97)
• assessments and measures undertaken to improve the occupational health and safety of employees (on page 93)

Information that is not applicable to the ARBV

The following information is not relevant to the ARBV for the reasons set out below:

• declaration of shares held by senior officers (no shares have ever been issued in the ARBV)
• details of overseas visits undertaken (no ARBV board members or senior executives took overseas work-related trips)
• details of any major external reviews carried out on the ARBV (no major external reviews undertaken)
• details of major research and development activities undertaken by the ARBV (no major research and development activities undertaken).

Building Act 1993

The ARBV does not own or control any government buildings and consequently is exempt from notifying its compliance with the building and maintenance provisions of the Building Act 1993 (Vic).

Local Jobs First Act 2003

The Local Jobs First Act 2003 (Vic) introduced in August 2018 brings together the Victorian Industry Participation Policy (VIPP) and Major Project Skills Guarantee (MPSG) policy which were previously administered separately.

Departments and public sector bodies are required to apply the Local Job first policy in all projects valued at $3 million or more in Metropolitan Melbourne or for state-wide projects, or $1 million or more for projects in regional Victoria.

No procurements initiated by the ARBV in 2020-21 were assessed as falling within the Local Jobs First Policy.

Disability Act 2006

The Disability Act 2006 (Vic) reaffirms and strengthens the rights of people with a disability and recognises this requires support across the government sector and within the community.

Absolutely everyone: State disability plan for 2017-2020 is the Victorian Government’s framework for enabling people with disability to participate and contribute to the social, economic and civic life of their community. Over time the government will consider ways to align disability action plans to the state plan.

The ARBV has a Disability Action Plan in place approved by the Board. Consistent with the plan the ARBV’s Human Resources policies e.g. Workplace Health and Safety and Equal Opportunity recognise and seek to address the rights and needs of people with disabilities.

This is exampled by an organisational disability employment strategy where the ARBV will make reasonable adjustments for a person with a disability to ensure an inclusive and disability equitable workplace. Those adjustments include where:

• a person with a disability who applies for a job, is offered employment, or is an employee, and requires the adjustment in order to participate in the recruitment process or perform the genuine and reasonable requirements of the job
• it is necessary to ensure employees with a disability can work safely and productively
• flexibility in the working arrangements is required for example where employee is the carer of a child under 18 with a disability.

Environmental and social impacts

The ARBV is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and promoting awareness and participation amongst its employees. The use of recycled paper together with the emphasis on electronic document management and a “paperlite” approach is reducing paper and storage. Wastepaper is binned for recycling and used printer cartridges are disposed of via Planet Ark.

The ARBV uses a not-for-profit service provider who help job seekers to find work with inclusive employers who recognise and value diversity. This service includes cleaners who use environmentally safe products.

The ARBV will continue to also invest in green deposits which are deposits issued by the provider to invest in environmentally beneficial projects and initiatives.

Declarations of pecuniary interests

All ARBV officers exercising a financial delegation have completed a declaration of pecuniary interest in accordance with the ARBV delegation’s policy.

Consultancy expenditure

Details of consultancies (valued at $10,000 or greater)

In 2020-21, there were 6 consultancy engagements for which services were provided during the reporting period that were individually valued at $10,000 or greater (excluding GST).

The total expenditure incurred during 2020-21 in relation to these consultancies was $140,652. Details of individual consultancies are outlined below and can also be obtained at ARBV’s website (www.arbv.vic.gov.au).

Details of consultancies under $10,000

In 2020-21 there were 3 consultancies engaged during the year, where the total fees payable to the individual consultancy was less than $10,000. The total expenditure incurred during 2020-21 in relation to these consultancies was $7,790 (excl. GST).

ARBV Chairpersons and Registrars since 1923

ARBV Chairpersons and Registrars since 1923

On 30 June 2021:

The Architects Registration Board of Victoria employed 10 staff (9.4 full time equivalent), compared to 13 staff (11 full time equivalent) on 30 June 2020.

Staff numbers were lower in 2020-21 compared to last financial year due to delays in filling vacant positions in the areas of Legal Services, Governance and Compliance.

Employees have been correctly classified in workforce data collections.

All employees, except executive officers, are covered by the ARBV Enterprise Agreement.

Notes:

1. All figures reflect employment levels during the last full pay period in June of each year.
2. Excluded from workforce data include employees on leave without pay or absent on secondment, graduates, external contractors/consultants and temporary staff employed by employment agencies.
3. Ongoing employees includes people engaged on an open-ended contract of employment and executives engaged on a standard executive contract who were active in the last full pay period of June.
4. “FTE” stands for full time equivalent.
5. The ARBV uses Victorian Public Sector (VPS) Salaries and Classification and Value Range Descriptors.

The annual report of the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV) is prepared in accordance with all relevant Victorian legislation and pronouncements as far as practicable. This index has been prepared to facilitate the identification of the ARBV's compliance with statutory disclosure requirements.

Disclosure index 2020-21

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