The Architectural Ally Pledge

A commitment to supporting architecture in service of the public good

We, the providers of services, media, and technology for the architectural profession, affirm our commitment to the enduring value of architecture in shaping better cities, buildings, and communities. We acknowledge the unique role that architects play in delivering public benefit through thoughtful, ethical, and responsive design.

We recognize that our role is not neutral. The systems we build, the tools we offer, the narratives we promote—all shape the conditions in which architecture is practiced.

Therefore, we pledge the following:

1. We stand with architects.

We commit to being partners—not extractors—in the architectural ecosystem. We recognize the pressures architects face and strive to ease, not exploit, those pressures.

2. We serve the public benefit of better built environments.

We understand that architecture is a public act, and that every project—no matter how small—contributes to the fabric of daily life. We commit to advancing outcomes that promote sustainability, equity, beauty, and utility in the built environment.

3. We pursue business models that support the profession.

Wherever possible, we will structure our pricing, services, and partnerships in ways that add value to architectural practice rather than siphoning profit from it. We aim for mutual benefit, long-term trust, and shared success.

4. We prioritize open and equitable access.

We commit to offering services that are free for architects to access and use wherever possible. Where a free model is not viable, we will offer a meaningful free tier or equivalent low-barrier entry point, ensuring that our value is not restricted to those with commercial backing.

5. We support the institutions that strengthen architecture.

We recognize the essential role of industry bodies, advocacy organizations, and not-for-profits in upholding standards, fostering community, and championing the public value of architecture. We commit to supporting these institutions through partnerships, funding, and collaborative initiatives where possible.

6. We give back through research, events, and in-kind support.

When profit allows, we will invest in research, knowledge-sharing, and events that advance the profession and elevate public understanding of architecture. Where financial support is not possible, we will offer in-kind support, tools, or resources that meaningfully contribute.

7. We actively combat greenwashing.

We commit to honesty and transparency in all sustainability-related claims. We will avoid exaggeration, selective reporting, or misleading framing, and we will challenge others in our ecosystem to do the same. The credibility of environmental progress depends on it.

8. We prioritise local and Australian-first solutions.

Wherever viable, we will choose locally developed and Australian-owned tools, suppliers, and collaborators. We recognize the value of a strong domestic ecosystem and the importance of reinvesting in the industries and communities we serve.

9. We prioritize integrity and independence.

Our tools, media, and services will be designed to inform, empower, and elevate architects—not to manipulate, mislead, or monopolise. We will avoid commercial practices that compromise the independence or credibility of architectural decision-making.

10. We listen and evolve.

We commit to ongoing dialogue with the profession and to shaping our services in response to real needs. We will remain open to critique and committed to improvement.

This pledge is not just a statement of principles. It is a standard by which we invite architects to hold us accountable. Together, we can build systems that respect the work of architects and improve the environments we all inhabit.