Faster isn't enough: architects say AI must improve society, not just productivity

In a wide-ranging submission to the Senate inquiry into AI and data centres, Australia’s peak body for architecture has called for reform to ensure AI delivers maximum public value.  

With current regulation and governance lagging behind, the Australian Institute of Architects has argued the built environment should be recognised as a priority sector, because AI will increasingly influence planning, design and construction decisions that will affect people and communities for decades. 

This includes much-needed reform to encourage AI use that supports better design quality, sustainability and housing outcomes, not just speed; protect architects’ intellectual property; ensure AI tools don’t replace professional judgement; and invest in AI literacy and workforce capability. 

The submission, along with details of the Institute’s recommendations, is available here.  

Quotes attributable to David Wagner FRAIA, National President, Australian Institute of Architects: 

“AI is already radically reshaping the way architects work across the country – through supporting research, design testing, visualisation, project administration, data analysis, sustainability assessment and documentation support. 

“It will increasingly influence how buildings, precincts and infrastructure are planned, designed, assessed, procured, documented, built and managed. 

“This isn’t a question of whether AI can improve productivity – it clearly can. 

“It’s about whether it can improve long-term economic, social, cultural and environmental outcomes through good design – capturing opportunity, spreading benefits, and keeping Australians safe. 

“No one wants to see poorer quality buildings, inaccessible housing or public spaces, or design approaches or planning recommendations that replicate historical disadvantages – and this is a risk without adequate oversight of AI. 

“The Australian Institute of Architects is calling for practical reform that recognises the built environment as a priority sector in national AI policy – so that Australia can realise the enormous benefits of AI for the built environment while protecting public safety, professional accountability, intellectual property, community trust and long-term public value.”