Dear AILA Members,
We are excited to share updates and opportunities that reflect our commitment to advancing landscape architecture and supporting our members. As we look ahead, we envision a future of growth, collaboration, and impactful contributions to sustainable place-based development.
Leading the built environment sector. Landscape architects are driving positive change in the built environment. Our expertise in integrating natural systems with urban development positions us as leaders in creating sustainable, liveable places. By embracing innovation, integrating green infrastructure, and prioritising community well-being, we actively shape the future of our cities and regions.
AILA is dedicated to leading this transformation. With members spanning private, public, and academic sectors, it's time for all landscape architects to unite, strengthen our commitment, and lead national policy while demonstrating best practice in place-led outcomes. To achieve this vision, we must invest in professional development and stay at the cutting edge of design and technology. AILA’s comprehensive membership benefits, including CPD programs, industry news, and networking opportunities, provide the resources needed to stay ahead. By leveraging these opportunities, we can drive innovation in the built environment sector together.
Strengthening financial resilience. The AILA Board has approved a budget with a strong surplus, marking the start of a three-year plan to rebuild our cash reserves. This financial resilience ensures AILA is prepared to seize future opportunities and navigate challenges, crucial for our continued growth and success.
Inclusive and welcoming membership structure. We are committed to making AILA an inclusive and welcoming organisation for all landscape architects. We are conducting a comprehensive review of our membership structure and registration process, led by the AILA CEO and the membership committee. This review will involve consultations across all state chapters and remote sessions. Our goal is to ensure that every landscape architect, regardless of their role or title, and irrespective of their employer, finds value in being a member of AILA. If you'd like to take part in this review, please register your interest.
Aligning for greater impact. To enhance the effectiveness of 'one AILA,' we are restructuring our committees for seamless alignment from the Board to committees to working groups. This initiative aims to represent the interests of all members and provide equal access to member benefits, regardless of their location. Streamlining our structures will better serve our members and amplify our collective impact.
Transparency in financial reporting. Transparency and accuracy are paramount in our financial reporting. Chapters will now report their P&L with full audited financials available in the AILA annual report in October. This approach ensures clarity and accountability, aligning with our unified financial management strategy. Notably, chapter manager salaries are now covered by AILA national, reflecting our commitment to a cohesive organisational structure.
Welcoming new practitioners. RLA applications are open until the end of the month. AILA warmly welcomes new practitioners on their journey to becoming Registered Landscape Architects. Whether you are experienced or just starting, AILA provides a supportive community and a wealth of resources to help you thrive.
Building a national community. As the only organisation dedicated to uniting landscape architects across Australia, AILA offers a platform for meaningful contributions to sustainable place-led development. Our advocacy at state and national levels underscores the significant value of landscape architecture in enhancing the liveability and sustainability of our regions and cities.
Expanding membership benefits. Our comprehensive membership benefits support your professional growth and success. From professional recognition and CPD to networking opportunities and industry news, AILA offers numerous resources to enhance your career. Participate in the AILA Landscape Architecture Awards program to gain public and peer recognition for your outstanding work. Find out about our newly launched CPD program here.
Get involved and make a difference. We encourage you to get involved at various levels, from local Chapter activities to national committees and boards. Volunteering, participating in awards juries, and contributing to advocacy efforts are excellent ways to develop leadership skills and shape the profession's future. Keep an eye on our newsletters to find out about opportunities to get involved.
Join or renew your membership. If you are not yet a member, now is the perfect time to join AILA and take advantage of our many benefits. Visit our website or contact our membership team at [email protected] for assistance.
Thank you for your dedication to landscape architecture. Together, we will achieve great things and elevate our profession to new heights.
Warm regards,
Andy Sharp
AILA Director
Andy Sharp, AILA RLA
Director, Australian Institute of Landscape Architects