The Australian Institute of Architects Gold Medal is the highest honour the Institute can bestow. The award was created in 1960 to recognise distinguished service by Australian architects who have designed or executed buildings of high merit; produced work of great distinction resulting in the advancement of architecture or endowed the profession of architecture in a distinguished manner.

Each year since 1970 the Gold Medallist has delivered the AS Hook Memorial Address. The address was named in memory of Alfred Samuel Hook. The address provides insight into the life, work and principles of the Gold Medallist and the state of the profession at that time. The AS Hook presentation is traditionally the final presentation of the tour and is held in the Gold Medallist's home state.