Important — Victorian members: A new Victorian Architects Code of Professional Conduct took effect in April 2026, issued by the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV). It brings new requirements for client architect agreements and specific steps you will need to take before signing, such as providing a copy of the ARBV's client Checklist. The CAA2024 and CAALS2024 may not yet meet all new requirements in Victoria. The Institute is reviewing its contracts and engaging with the ARBV. Refer to the ARBV's new Code information and the ARBV's Client-Architect Agreement guideline, and you might wish to seek advice before using the current version for your Victorian projects.
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The Australian Institute of Architects’ (the Institute) 2024 Client Architect Agreement (CAA2024) can be used for design and building projects of various sizes and complexity. A 2024 Client Architect Agreement for Limited Services (CAALS2024) will follow for small, less complex projects or partial services or lower-risk engagements.
The former CAA2009 and CAA2019 have been withdrawn from sale.
The CAA2024 adopts user-friendly plain English and includes provisions and clarifications on key mechanisms, such as copyright and consequences of breach of copyright, fees, payment terms, GST, negotiating changes to the services and fees wherever there are protracted services or variations, circumstances for terminating the agreement, actions required on termination and signing the contract using electronic signing.
Layout, concepts and defined terminology familiar from the previous CAA editions are used and clarified, as well as updates for changes to the state and territory Architects Acts and codes of practice.
The digital version of the CAA2024 is available to all Institute members with access to Acumen, as a membership benefit. A hardcopy version can be purchased through our Online store.
This latest version is published with a comprehensive User guide, Information guide to the client and template guide letters. Download the contract and guides below.
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