The Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA) Victorian Chapter and the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) have united to call on all political parties to back design quality as the cornerstone of Victoria’s expanding housing pipeline.
In a joint statement, the peak bodies representing planners and architects called on candidates in the upcoming state election to commit to permanent funding for the Office of the Victorian Government Architect (OVGA).
As Victoria moves to accelerate housing delivery through higher density and streamlined, code-based approval processes, the groups argue that independent design oversight is critical to maintaining community liveability, sustainability, and public trust.
RAIA Victorian Chapter President Stephanie Bullock stressed that achieving high-density housing successfully requires expert design leadership from inception through to completion.
She noted that both planners and architects share the common goal of delivering homes that residents are proud to live in and communities that function effectively.
As population growth, urban evolution, and climate challenges reshape the built environment, she highlighted that the OVGA provides the vital design expertise needed to ensure long-term value.
“Density done well takes design expertise and leadership from the earliest stage of planning through to the finished building. The OVGA provides that leadership,” Bullock said.
PIA Victoria President Pat Fensham echoed those sentiments, stating that increases in urban density must be matched by a heightened focus on climate resilience and neighbourhood quality.
He said new residential developments should strengthen local character rather than compromise what residents value.
In addition to securing long-term funding, PIA is calling for the OVGA’s mandate to be expanded to include auditing the design quality of residential plans approved under newly introduced planning codes.
According to Fensham, expanding the OVGA’s scope ensures that housing reforms actively deliver quality outcomes on the ground rather than simply processing approvals.
Both organisations reaffirmed their readiness to collaborate with the next Victorian government to ensure that ambitious state housing targets produce sustainable, well-designed homes across Victoria’s cities and regions.
