- The Immediate Past President is Shannon Battisson
- Tanner was previously the Tasmanian Chapter President
- Jane Cassidy has been endorsed National President-Elect
Stuart Tanner’s National Presidency was confirmed at the Australian Institute of Architects’ (AIA) Annual General Meeting yesterday, where ACT-based architect Jane Cassidy was also endorsed as 2023/2024 National President-Elect.
Stuart Tanner
The principal of the eponymous firm, Tanner Architects, the Tasmanian-based architect has previously been elected as Tasmanian Chapter President.
Tanner was elected by National Council as National President-Elect in March this year, and assumed the role of National President at the conclusion of the 2023 AGM, held yesterday.
An architect at his own firm for the past 23 years, Tanner has been a member of the Institute since 1993, and participated on various Tasmanian Chapter committees from 2002, including the Awards Committee, Chairman of the Public Affairs Committee and more recently Chairman of the Practice Committee, prior to undertaking the role of Tasmanian Chapter President.
Tanner will also be the first Tasmania-based National President this century. He intends to bring a focus on popularising design and communicating the value of architecture throughout his one-year tenure.
“My key objective as an architect and ambassador for our Institute is to encourage a strong literacy around the importance of design excellence and great architecture, and the role we play in sustainability and social wellbeing,” he said.
“Everyone benefits from great architecture.”
Stuart Tanner, National President, Australian Institute of Architecture
Tanner will lead the Institute as it sets out its mission to be the voice for Australia’s built environment professionals with a fresh strategic plan.
This year also marks the celebration of Australia’s global landmark architecture project, the Sydney Opera House, on the 50th anniversary of its opening.
Tanner said architecture could act as a symbol of a culture and its priorities.
“The architecture profession is responsible for leading on issues of climate change and responsible design in our built environment,” he said.
“The architecture profession is responsible for leading on issues of climate change and responsible design in our built environment.”
“We are also committed to embracing First Nations cultural awareness and design for Country.
“The most potent way we can convey these messages is through the quality and rigour of our work. Architecture is a potent way to lift society, generate civic pride and emotional enrichment.”
Receiving the baton from Immediate Past President, Shannon Battisson, Tanner paid tribute to Battisson’s steadfast commitment to the Institute and the profession, noting her invaluable contribution to advocacy on climate and housing.
“Shannon’s unwavering commitment to the mission and vision of the Institute has been remarkable,” he said.
“She has demonstrated leadership and passion, which have played a significant role in shaping the direction and success of the Institute.”
