The use of the title ‘architect’ in NSW is protected by the Architects Act 2003. An individual may only call themselves an ‘architect’ if they are registered on the NSW Register of Architects. There is more than one pathway to become a registered architect. See 'Pathways to registration'.
Architects have operated within a well-regulated, professional system since 1921. The regulation provided by the Architects Act 2003 and NSW Architects Code of Professional Conduct safeguards the interests of architects’ clients and the community more broadly.
The use of the title ‘architect’ is protected by the Architects Act 2003. It is an offence to represent an individual or business entity as an architect when they are not. Significant fines apply for breaches of sections 9, 10, 11 and 12 of the Act.
There is more than one pathway to become a registered architect. This pathway finder will assist to identify which pathway may be most appropriate.
Everyone seeking registration as an architect is required to successfully complete the APE unless exempted. The APE is a 3-part competency-based assessment process. Upon successful completion you can apply for registration as an architect in NSW.
The NSW PPA is a competency based 'assessment by portfolio' process that provides an alternative pathway to registration as an architect in NSW for those who do not have an approved academic qualification in architecture.
All interstate architects intending to work in NSW must notify the NSW Architects Registration Board before commencing work. Both Mutual Recognition and Automatic Mutual Recognition - Automatic Deemed Registration allow interstate architects to lawfully work in NSW.
To become registered you must have successfully completed the Architectural Practice Examination (unless exempted) before completing the online Form 01 Application for Initial Registration as an Architect in NSW. Applications for registration are presented to the Board for endorsement at its monthly meetings.
