NEW AGREEMENT A BOOST TO GREEN COLLAR SKILLS

A new agreement between the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) and Australian Institute of Architects (the Institute) will boost the construction industry’s green collar skills.

The two organisations have signed a memorandum of understanding which will deliver cross-accreditation of courses, events and activities that promote sustainability in the built environment.

Architects will receive recognition for green skills education and training they undertake with the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs of either organisation.

“This relationship streamlines the CPD process, making it easier for architects to gain points in both the Institute and GBCA CPD programs,” Institute CEO David Parken said. “It recognises the commitment that our members have made to continually advance their green skills.”

GBCA Chief Executive Romilly Madew said: “The GBCA and the Institute are dedicated to supporting the green skills development of architects across the industry.”

She added: “This new agreement is an indicator of where the industry is heading. Green skills are no longer seen as an ‘add on’ but an integral requirement for people working in the built environment.

“Green jobs are the jobs of the future. Sustainability skills should be embedded in all jobs in all sectors of Australia’s economy, but particularly in the property and construction industry, which has an unrivalled opportunity to reduce carbon emissions and water use, while supporting the growth of new, low-carbon industries,”

For more information: www.gbca.org.au/cpd or www.architecture.com.au

About the Green Building Council of Australia
The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) is Australia’s leading authority on green building. The GBCA was established in 2002 to develop a sustainable property industry in Australia and drive the adoption of green building practices. The GBCA has more than 930 member companies who work together to support the Council and its activities. The GBCA promotes green building programs, technologies, design practices and processes, and operates Australia’s only national voluntary comprehensive environmental rating system for buildings – Green Star. See: www.gbca.org.au

About the Australian Institute of Architects
The Australian Institute of Architects is a national body consisting of almost 10,000 members across Australia and overseas. The Institute was formed in 1930 when state architectural Institutes combined to form a unified national association with the aim of advancing architecture, maintaining the integrity and standing of the profession, promoting the profession’s views nationally and internationally, and encouraging the study of architecture. By promoting better, responsible and environmental design, the Institute actively lobbies to maintain and improve the quality of the Australian built environment. Raising design standards in cities, urban areas, commercial and residential buildings, architects and the Institute have a major role in shaping Australia’s future.
See: www.architecture.com.au
Karen Jamal, Green Building Council of Australia.Trish Croaker, Australian Institute of Architects