News
Issue No. 60 - August/ /
Snap: Design Institute unites diverse disciplines
The Design Institute of Australia (DIA) is a professional body that represents designers across all disciplines. Through it, designers network and communicate with industry, government and the community.
With 146 members in a mix of professional and business streams, the South Australian Branch is a key networking hub for emerging and established designers, design houses and product resellers, retailers and distributors.
Most members are designers and businesses associated with interior architecture, followed by industrial design and graphic design. Some of its best known members include Woodhead International, the University of South Australia’s art and architecture and design schools, and Khai Liew.
Adelaide’s design scene is quite small and very competitive compared to other states, notably Victoria and NSW; getting noticed and winning opportunities is tough.
Co-president Andrew Whittaker has been a member for 20 years. He joined the DIA early in his career to deepen his involvement in the industry.
“I choose design as a career and wouldn’t change it for the world. The challenge of turning an idea or a problem into a tangible, functional product is very rewarding,” Andrew says.
“Being a member has enabled me to meet and mix with like minded-people. The relationships and networks have provided some great opportunities that I just would not have otherwise been exposed to.
“I believe good design is the key to a healthy and sustainable economy. With its combined recourses and large national membership base, the DIA is a great mechanism to provide a voice to the government and the wider business community.”
Many design disciplines - including graphics, industrial, interior and furniture - do not have the same level of accreditation required to pr...
