Welcome to APEC Architect Project The APEC Architect project was endorsed by the HRDWG in 2000 following a proposal by the Australian government to facilitate the mutual recognition of skills and qualifications of architects in the provision of professional services between member economies. The purpose of the APEC Architect project is to establish a common basis for the recognition of professional competence that will simplify access to independent practice as an architect in other participating economies.The Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST) had been involved with the APEC Architect project since its inception in 2001. The project has been progressing with great success, due to the contribution of those 15 economies now participating in the project.Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is an international forum composed of twenty-one member economies that have undertaken to act collectively to promote economic and technical cooperation within the Asia-Pacific region. Its purpose is “to sustain the growth and development of the region for the common good of its peoples”. APEC builds on WTO General Agreement on Trade and Services (GATS) principles for the progressive liberalisation of trade in services through the reduction of regulatory restrictions, leading to reciprocal agreements between member economies where appropriate.