Vacancy levels for architects remain lower than they were before the global financial crisis, according to research by Hays.

However, the recruitment consultants say vacancy levels are better than they were 18 months ago.

Hays NSW director Shane Little told the Australian Financial Review that firms are taking on temporary staff as they wait confirmation on major jobs.

There were also reports that the Australian market was attracting architects form abroad, although Little disagreed with such claims, saying it was less a case of a strong domestic market and more likely a reflection of the weakness abroad.

There is reportedly growing demand for architects and planners in healthcare, in line with increased government spending on hospital and healthcare projects.

Hays has also recently released a report on the state of demand for skills in the construction sector.