Architect Registration
In each state and territory of Australia it is a legal requirement that any person using the title ‘architect’ or offering services to the public as an architect, must be registered with the Architects’ Board in that jurisdiction. [Note: Each state and territory architects board publishes its register of Architects. Not all members of the AIA (Australian Institute of Architects) are able to use the title ‘architect’.]
Each State and Territory of Australia has its own Architects’ Board. Generally, the following three steps outline the requirements for registration as an architect in a State or Territory of Australia.
You must:
- have a recognised academic qualification in architecture or a pass in the National Program of Assessment (NPrA), or a pass in the relevant Registration Board Prescribed Examinations where offered;
- have a period of training through experience followed by successful completion of the AACA Architectural Practice Examination (APE); and
- apply for registration to the Architects’ Board in the State or Territory in which registration is sought.
Step 1
Education
For the purpose of meeting the academic requirements leading to the process of registration as an architect:
Australian Educated
If you have a qualification in architecture from an accredited Australian* school of architecture and would like to find out about the accreditation status of your qualification
(*and New Zealand and Singapore educated)
Overseas Educated
If you have a qualification in architecture from an overseas school of architecture and would like to find out about assessment of your qualification
No Recognised Qualification
If you do not have a formal qualification in architecture, or your qualification has been assessed as not equivalent to an accredited qualification, but you have substantial skill and experience in the field of architecture
Step 2
Architectural Practice Examination (APE)
After you have satisfied the academic requirements, you will be required to undertake the three-part Architectural Practice Examination (APE):
APE Part 1
Logbook and Statement of Practical Experience
After you have satisfied the academic requirements set out in step one, you will be required to undertake a period of practical experience
APE Part 2
National Examination Paper (NEP)
After you have satisfied the practical experience requirements, you will be required to sit the NEP
APE Part 3
Examination by Interview
After you have satisfactorily completed the NEP, you will be required to sit the Oral Examination
Step 3
Registration Authorities
Application for Registration
Having completed the requirements of steps 1 and 2, you must apply for registration to the Architects’ Board in the State or Territory in which you wish to practice.
Mutual Recognition
Under Australian Commonwealth, State/Territory legislation and New Zealand legislation, designed to facilitate free trade in services, if you are registered as an architect in any Australian jurisdiction, or in New Zealand, you may apply for registration within Australia and New Zealand under these mutual recognition provisions without repeating steps 2 and 3.
You should contact the Board in the State or Territory in which second or subsequent registration is sought to determine application procedures and applicable fees.
(612) 6230 0506 
(612) 6230 7879 