The Australian architecture community has come out in full force with offers of help in the aftermath of the floods in Queensland, Victoria and northern New South Wales. Architects are now set to play a key role as the recovery phase begins.

“As the waters recede, architectural services will be vitally needed to answer an urgent need for reconstruction of nursing homes, health facilities, child-care and schools to provide some stability for the community at large, as well as to coordinate the residential and commercial rebuilding,” stated Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) Queensland President Peter Skinner.

The AIA Institute Members’ Flood Relief Blog, online throughout the month of January, has received numerous responses from members eager to offer their assistance to other members affected by the disaster.

In addition to providing a means of online communication, the AIA’s affiliate organisation ArchiCentre will be providing free initial response advice over the next 2 weeks to householders affected by the floods – everything from what to do next, what to look out for, what to hold on to and what to let go of.

The AIA will be working in parallel to Emergency Architects Australia (EAA), who are in the process of putting together multidisciplinary teams of engineers, planners and quantity surveyors with the skills best suited to move the recovery effort forward.

“The important thing is to get in there, to talk to people and help them get a sense of direction,” said EAA Chairman David Chesterman.

“They’re confused and distraught and don’t know what the future holds; we can help them with rational strategy and help them rebuild.”

EAA have already received some generous offers of assistance; staff from architectural and design firm Woodhead will each donate one day’s pay to aid EAA in its efforts.

“It’s going to be of immense assistance,” said Chesterman of Woodhead’s donation.

Main image by Jim McKee