Strata Managing Agents Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 – What Do I Need to Know?

On September 19 2024, the NSW Parliament passed the Strata Managing Agents Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 (“The Bill”) in response to growing concerns about the practices of strata managing agents.

In a recent SCA NSW webinar, industry experts David Bannerman (Principal of Bannermans Lawyers), James Stewart (Managing Director of Altitude Body Corporate & Management) and Tony Irvine (SCA NSW President) came together to explain the new changes and what you need to do next.

Important Dates for New Provisions

The provisions of the new Bill are expected to commence as follows:

Early November 2024 – This marks the start of higher penalties for existing obligations and changes to NSW Fair Trading’s enforcement powers.

Early February 2025 – The remaining provisions will come into effect, including new disclosure obligations and the prohibition on receiving commissions when the owners corporation obtains an insurance quote and arranges for its payment separately from the agent.

 

Understanding the Key Changes:

 

Property and Stock Agents Act 2002 (PSAA 2002):

1. Section 55 No Entitlement to Commission

There will no longer be any entitlement to commission or expenses without an agency agreement. The new subsections restrict the inclusion of prohibited provisions defined by Section 55(2) regulations.

2. Section 57 Rebates, Discounts and Commissions

Approval from the owners corporation is now required for any commissions or training services, which must be detailed in the motion. This includes:

  • Amount and calculation of any commission.
  • The monetary value of any training or an estimate if unknown.
  • Nature of the relationship between the strata managing agent and the provider of the commission or training.
  • Explanation of why the commission or training serves the best interests of the owners corporation.
  • Confirming that accepting the gift or benefit does not breach obligations under the Property and Stock Agents Regulation 2022.

 

Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 (SSMA 2015)

 
3. Section 60 Disclosure of Commissions and Training Services

Strata managing agents must update the strata committee as soon as practicable upon becoming aware of discrepancies in commissions or training services provided versus what was disclosed at the annual general meeting. This disclosure must include detailed explanations for any variations.

Additionally, the Tribunal can order a strata managing agent to repay undisclosed commissions or training services. Significant penalties apply for non-compliance, including 500 penalty units for corporations and 100 penalty units for individuals.

 

4.Section 71 Strata Managing Agents and Building Managers Interests

Strata managing agents or building managers are now required to disclose interests before the appointment, with the maximum penalty for non-compliance being 50 penalty units.

 

5. Section 166 Insurance Quotations

Strata managing agents must provide at least three insurance quotations detailing new specific information, including base premium amount, commission, stamp duty, broker fees, levy amount, etc. SCA’s Best Practice Insurance Disclosure Guide can help you understand what you need to do in further detail.

Enhanced Penalties

Overall, the scope of NSW Fair Trading’s powers has been expanded, allowing investigations and inspections of records at your office upon receipt of most types of complaints.

 

What You Need to Do:

 

1. Develop Comprehensive Disclosures

Starting now, you should revise your Agency Agreements to include expansive disclosures of commissions, training services or other benefits. This will help avoid the need for owners corporation approval at a general meeting once the new requirements are enforced.

 

2.Create Template Documents

Create template documents that:

  • Update motions to appoint strata managing agents to include additional disclosures under the amendments to Section 71 of the SSMA 2015.
  • Update your report on commissions and training services to reflect additional disclosure requirements under Section 60 of the PSAA 2002.
  • Providing notices to the strata committee regarding variations in disclosure reports to reflect these additional requirements.

 

3.Update Meeting Agendas

Prepare the following agendas to ensure compliance with the new requirements:

  • Include additional disclosure requirements for appointments and reports on disclosures.
  • Provide for additional disclosure requirements at the Annual General Meeting and approval of any additional benefits by ordinary resolution.
  • Ensure Extraordinary General Meeting agendas reflect the new disclosure requirements for appointments and reports.
  • Include the receipt of notices regarding new connections or contracts related to the strata managing agent for committee meetings.

 

4.Prepare New Disclosure Documents

Draft new disclosure documents, including:

  • Notice to Committee regarding connection to supplier or original owner.
  • Notice to Committee regarding contract entry

Building Defects FAQS

In a recent SCA NSW webinar, industry experts Banjo Stanton (Bannermans Lawyers), Joshua Jasnos (Strata Plus) and Tony Irvine (SCA NSW President) came together to answer key FAQs about building defects.

1. Who is Responsible for Common Property Defects?

In NSW, under the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015, the owners corporation (also known as the body corporate in other states) holds the primary responsibility for the maintenance and repair of common property. Specifically, Section 106 of the Act states:

(1) An owners corporation for a strata scheme must properly maintain and keep in a state of good and serviceable repair the common property and any personal property vested in the owners corporation.

This means that any defects or issues affecting common property areas—such as hallways, gardens, roofs and shared facilities—fall under the responsibility of the owners corporation.

Potential Liable Parties for Common Property Defects

While the owners corporation is responsible for managing and repairing common property, they may seek compensation or repairs from various third parties, including:

A. Builders and Developers

If defects are related to construction or design faults, builders and developers may be liable. Under the Home Building Act 1989, builders and developers must adhere to statutory warranties that cover structural defects and certain non-structural issues.

B. Subcontractors

If defects are due to the work of subcontractors (e.g., electricians, plumbers), they might also be held accountable under the statutory warranties.

Home Building Statutory Warranties provide protections and avenues for claiming repairs or compensation for certain types of defects. They generally cover a period of 6 years for major defects and 2 years for all other defects from the date of completion.

 

2. When Should You Engage a Building Consultant?

You should engage a building consultant as early as possible when defects are suspected. If you suspect issues with the construction or condition of the common property, a building consultant can provide a detailed inspection and report on the nature and extent of the defects.

 

3. When Should You Engage a Lawyer?

As a starting point, you should not engage a lawyer until you have solid evidence of building defects. Once defects have been identified, you should engage a lawyer to pursue legal action if the owners corporation has neglected their duty to repair and maintain common property.

 

4. What Should You Do from the Onset?

A. As soon as defects are identified, you should document them. This includes taking photos, keeping records of any correspondence and noting the nature and extent of the defects.

B. Report defects to the owners corporation. They are responsible for repairing and maintaining common property.

C. If necessary, hire a building consultant to assess the defects and provide a detailed report. This report will be important for examining the nature of the defects and deciding whether to pursue legal action.Top of Form

All new Strata Committee Manual from Bannermans Lawyers

Our partners at Bannermans Lawyers have created the Bannermans Strata Committee Manual provides a comprehensive and practical guideline to address the common questions raised by strata managers and strata committee members.

The guide begins by introducing the basics including the role and power of a strata committee, advancing to the statutory requirement regarding strata committee meetings, and then delving into complex issues related to liability, pecuniary interest and removal of strata committee members.

Part 1: The Basics

  • What is a “strata committee”?
  • What are the roles of secretary, treasurer, and chairperson?
  • What is the proper way to appoint a strata committee?
  • What limits are there on a strata committee?
  • Can strata committee members be paid for services performed?

Part 2: Meeting Procedures and Meeting Minutes

  • How do you set up a committee meeting?
  • What is a recommended method of chairing committee meetings?
  • What is a pecuniary interest notice book and how do you create and manage it?
  • What are some things to watch out for when preparing meeting minutes?

Part 3: Common Issues, Liabilities, and Removal of Strata Committee Members

  • What are the common issues that strata committees deal with?
  • What are the liabilities of strata committee members?
  • What do we do if the strata committee is not acting appropriately?
  • How can we help?

 

Get Strata Committee Smart by CLICKING HERE and downloading the guide from the Bannermans’s website.

New Supervision Guidelines – What You Need to Know

The new supervision guidelines for the strata and property services industry have been introduced, and it’s important for Principal Licensees and Licensees in Charge to stay ahead of the new guidelines.

Recently, a webinar hosted by SCA NSW featured insights from Rod Smith (SCA NSW Board Member and Managing Director of the Strata Collective), Matt Jenkins (SCA NSW Board Member and General Manager of Bannermans Lawyers) and Lachlan Malloch (Principal Advisor at the Office of the Strata and Property Services Commissioner) provided an overview of these new guidelines.

Who’s Responsible for Supervision?

Principal Licensees and Licensees in Charge are responsible for supervision. Their responsibilities include:

  • Ensuring Proper Oversight – They must oversee all business activities.
  • Recognising Supervision Failures – They should be able to identify when supervision is inadequate or failing and take corrective actions.
  • Covering All Areas – Their supervision should extend across all areas of the business.
  • Ensuring Compliance – They need to make sure that all employees understand and adhere to the rules and standards set by the business.

 

What Does Supervision Involve?

Supervision is more than just observing employees; it includes effective leadership and ensuring adherence to legal standards. The three components are:

 

1. People Leadership

Licensees in charge should provide the team with the necessary guidance and support, not just through oversight but by actively helping them with their professional development.

They should also offer comprehensive induction programs for new employees and continuous training to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities.

 

2.Legal Compliance

Develop and maintain procedures that ensure your business adheres to all relevant legal requirements. Regularly update these procedures to reflect any changes in legislation.

 

3.Conduct Monitoring

Regularly monitor employee conduct to ensure it aligns with business standards.

 

New People Leadership Requirements

 

1.Licensing Compliance

Clearly define which roles within your business require specific licenses. Ensure that all employees involved in regulated functions possess the necessary certificates, licenses or accreditations.

 

2.Qualifications and Training

Licensees in charge are now required to stay current with relevant legislation. Completing compulsory CPD units alone is not sufficient; they must actively stay informed about the latest legal developments.

Additionally, they must maintain accurate records of CPD activities and ensure that work experience for assistant agents and Class 2 licensees is documented and verified properly.

 

3.Professional Conduct

Develop and implement written procedures for handling complaints. This includes informing consumers of their right to contact regulators if necessary

Licensees in charge should also Implement policies to handle issues related to gifts, conflicts of interest and information security. Ensure compliance with Australian Consumer Law, which prohibits misleading and deceptive conduct, false representations and unfair contract terms.

What the New Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Standards Mean for E-Mobility Devices in NSW

Starting February 2025, new mandatory safety standards will be in place for lithium-ion batteries used in e-mobility devices such as e-bikes, e-scooters and e-skateboards. These standards are designed to enhance consumer safety by reducing the risk of fires associated with these devices. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s Changing?

From February 2025, e-mobility devices sold in NSW must comply with new safety standards. Lithium-ion batteries used in these devices will be considered ‘declared electrical articles’ under the Gas and Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2017. This means they must meet specific safety requirements before they can be sold.

 

Why Are These Changes Important?

Lithium-ion batteries are popular due to their energy efficiency and environmental benefits. However, they can pose significant fire risks if not manufactured to strict safety standards. The new regulations aim to ensure that only safe, compliant products are available, protecting consumers and improving overall safety.

The new standards will ensure that the e-mobility devices you buy have been tested and certified for safety. For tips on safe handling, charging and disposing of lithium-ion batteries, visit the Lithium-ion Battery Safety Awareness page. 

For more details on compliance, testing and certification, visit the Approval of Electrical Articles page.

For further details on the key dates for the new standards head to the NSW GOVT page.

 

How This Affects SCA NSW’s Position

The introduction of these new safety standards aligns with SCA NSW’s ongoing efforts to address the safety risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. SCA NSW supports the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission’s recommendations for consumer education and stricter safety regulations to reduce battery-related incidents. The new standards will bolster these efforts by ensuring that e-mobility devices in strata schemes comply with rigorous safety requirements.

SCA NSW continues to advocate for:

  • Educational initiatives designed to inform residents about safe practices for charging and using lithium-ion batteries.
  • Tailored By-laws that restrict the use of non-compliant e-mobility devices and ensure regular servicing of approved devices.

Promoting Best Practices – Managing Conflicts of Interest in Strata

In the strata industry, managing conflicts of interest is not just a regulatory requirement but an important part of ethical conduct. SCA NSW understands this well, urging the need for effective conflict of interest management strategies to ensure transparency and uphold professional standards. Here’s why managing conflicts of interest matters and how SCA NSW is leading the way in best practices through our recent Conflicts of Interest Webinar and the release of our Best Practice Guide.

Defining Conflicts of Interest

A conflict of interest arises when personal interests interfere with the professional responsibilities and performance of strata managers. This could include financial relationships with service providers, ownership interests in managed properties or accepting gifts that may compromise impartiality.

Why Manage Conflicts of Interest?

The question of why we manage conflicts of interest is fundamental. It boils down to maintaining integrity in decision-making processes and effective strata management. When personal, financial or other interests conflict with the objective performance of duties, it can undermine trust and lead to legal consequences.

SCA NSW Best Practice Guide

SCA NSW is committed to continuous improvement, aligning with the PSS requirements and engaging with the Professional Standards Authority. Recent audits have highlighted areas where improvements in conflict of interest management can make a significant impact. This will also mean better compliance with existing legislation, including the Property and Stock Agents Act 2022, Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and other fiduciary obligations at general law.

The SCA NSW Best Practice Guide on Managing Conflicts of Interest serves as a comprehensive resource for strata managers. Key elements include:

  • Disclosure and Assessment
    • Upon disclosure, higher management evaluates the conflict’s implications and takes measures to mitigate its influence on decision-making.
  • Record Keeping
    • All disclosed conflicts are documented in a Conflict of Interest Register, ensuring transparency and accountability.
  • Education and Training
    • Training sessions to be conducted to educate staff on identifying, disclosing and managing conflicts of interest.
  • Monitoring and Enforcement
    • To enforce compliance, regular audits are conducted, and violations of conflict of interest policies are met with fair disciplinary actions.

To download the Best Practice Guide & Templates – head to the ‘Best Practice Guide’ section under ‘NSW Resources’ in your Membership portal to download the guide – ‘Conflicts of Interest’.

Managing conflicts of interest isn’t merely a box to check—it’s a fundamental practice that protects strata communities from unethical practices.

SCA NSW reinforces its commitment to transparency and continues to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in the strata industry.

Legal Aspects of Installing CCTV & Other Security Systems in Buildings

With the rise of CCTV and security systems in strata, understanding the legal aspects of installing these systems is important. Key issues include what cameras can record and compliance with relevant laws. In a recent SCA NSW webinar, Rod Smith (SCA NSW Board Member and Managing Director of the Strata Collective), Jeff Shawcross (Managing Director of Quatrix) and David Bannerman (Principal of Bannermans Lawyers) provide insights on how to address these legal considerations. 

The Benefits of CCTV in Strata Schemes 

  • Effective in discouraging criminal activity. 
  • Helps in reducing home delivery theft. 
  • Deters vandalism and illegal dumping. 
  • Prevents unauthorised access into car parks. 
  • Encourages better behaviour among residents. 

Legal Considerations for Installing CCTV Systems 

The question of why we manage conflicts of interest is fundamental. It boils down to maintaining integrity in decision-making processes and effective strata management. When personal, financial or other interests conflict with the objective performance of duties, it can undermine trust and lead to legal consequences.

1. By-Laws 

A by-law is required when installing CCTV cameras on common property. The by-law application should outline the following: 

  • The reasons for installing the cameras (e.g., improved security). 
  • Specific areas where the cameras will be installed. 
  • How long the footage will be kept and the procedures for managing footage. 

 2. Recording Locations 

CCTVs should be placed in common areas only. Recording inside individual apartments or private spaces can breach the Privacy Act 1988. 

 3. Audio Recordings 

 To legally record conversations, you must have consent from all parties involved. If one party does not consent, audio recordings can lead to legal issues and privacy breaches. 

 4. Retaining Footage 

If the scheme retains footage internally, it becomes part of the official records under Section 182 of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015. This section requires records, including CCTV footage, to be available for inspection upon request by lot owners. 

 

5. Recording Meetings 

When recording meetings, notify attendees beforehand and obtain their consent. If a lot owner requests access to a recorded meeting, consider whether any discussed matters are legally privileged before granting access. 

 

Scope of Works 

 

1. Project Brief Template

 A project brief template can help the committee understand the project’s scope, legal requirements and budget. It simplifies the process by saving time on administrative tasks and ensures everyone involved has a clear idea of what needs to be done. This helps in getting accurate quotes from suppliers and keeps the project on track. 

 

Download Project Brief: Strata Quote Request for New CCTV Installation 

 

 2. Engaging Contractors

 Scope of Works – Provide detailed information to contractors to receive accurate quotes. This includes: 

  • Work order or quote request 
  • Work order or quote request number 
  • Client name and email 
  • Lot/apartment number(s) 
  • Address of site 
  • Location of work  

Thaks to Quatrix for providing a templated Scope of Works: Strata CCTV Installation Project and Project Brief: Strata Quote Request for New CCTV Installation .  SCA NSW has a simple and easy-to-understand guide here to help you communicate a work order/quote details to service providers. 

Get quotes only when necessary as they are usually valid for 30-90 days. Prices for materials and labour can increase, so get preliminary pricing for your project brief and then seek multiple quotes. Click here to access SCA NSW’s Scope of Works Checklist. 

FAQs on Managing Lithium-ion Batteries in Strata

Lithium-ion batteries continue to be a trending topic in strata, sparking discussions about safety, insurance and management. Recently, Alistair Gibney (Body Corporate Brokers), Tony Irvine (SCA NSW President), David Bannerman (Bannermans Lawyers) and Rob Broadhead (2020 Fire Protection) shared their insights in a webinar hosted by SCA NSW.

Here are the key FAQs asked during the webinar:

Where are Lithium-ion Batteries Found? 

Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in cars, e-bikes, e-scooters and other electronic devices. They can be categorised into two main groups: batteries for cars and batteries for e-bikes and e-scooters. Among these, e-bikes and e-scooters pose a higher risk in strata buildings due to their higher flammability and tendency to catch fire when the cells are damaged. 

 

Do Lithium-ion Battery Explosions Change the Landscape for Insurers in Strata? 

Yes, insurers are increasingly focusing on the installation and management of these batteries in strata buildings to assess and mitigate financial risk. From an insurance point of view, key challenges include: 

 

  • Diverse applications and uses of lithium-ion batteries. 
  • Variability in operational conditions and risk factors. 
  • Complexity in establishing uniform safety measures. 
  • Lack of standardised regulations and standards. 
  • Challenges in fire control and environmental risks. 
  • Difficulty in implementing intervention procedures during fires or explosions. 
  • Limited historical data. 

 

What Should You Do to Mitigate Lithium-ion Battery Risks?

To mitigate the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, you should: 

  • Implement evacuation plans to ensure there are escape routes in the event of a battery fire. NSW Fire and Rescue can assist in developing these plans (Click here for more information). 
  • Establish by-laws to regulate the use of lithium-ion batteries, particularly for e-bikes and e-scooters.  
  • Avoid installing EV charging stations in basements as they do not provide optimal fire protection. 

 

What Should You Tell Residents to Do in the Event of an EV Fire?

Strata managers should advise residents to: 

  • Keep e-scooters and e-bikes in spaces far away from living areas, as the time from ignition to a major fire is very short. 
  • Ensure that e-scooters and e-bikes are not stored in places that block escape routes. 

 

If a By-Law Prohibits E-scooters and E-bikes in the Building, can the Owners Corporation Designate a Safe Area for Them?

 

Yes, a by-law can be created to establish an external charging box. This box can contain any fires caused by battery ignitions, limiting damage to the box itself rather than the entire building. You can also implement other by-laws to regulate the use, location and management of lithium-ion battery vehicles to improve safety in your scheme. 

Joshua Baldwin Announced as SCA Australasia President

SCA Australasia Member Update 4 July 2024

Joshua Baldwin Announced as SCA Australasia President

It is with great excitement that we announce Joshua Baldwin as the next President of Strata Community Association Australasia, becoming the youngest president in SCA’s history.

Joshua’s appointment is the latest progression in a bright career in the strata industry and with SCA, a career that has already spanned decade.

As you may be aware, Joshua’s journey with SCA began in 2013 on the SCA (SA/NT) Board, where he quickly became a key figure within the organisation, subsequently serving as President of the SA/NT Chapter for six years.

His tenure with the chapter was marked by significant achievements, including the pivotal merger of the South Australian and Northern Territory chapters. The merger stands as a testament to his vision of fostering greater cohesion and collaboration within the industry.

Speaking on his appointment, Mr Baldwin said it was an honour to be elected as SCA Australasia President:

“Firstly, I would just like to extend such a massive thank you to outgoing SCA Australasia President Chris Duggan, who has left an incredibly strong legacy of achievement and collaboration that I hope to build on,” said Mr Baldwin.

“Chris has been such an invaluable member of SCA and his contribution to the strata industry really cannot be understated. From his leadership on strata insurance affordability, availability and transparency, to increasing professional standards across the country and driving the creation of the fledgling SCA RTO, he has been a clear and unifying voice for the strata industry.

Mr Baldwin has flagged four areas he will be focusing on during his term of presidency:

“I’m incredibly excited to commence the role at a pivotal time for our organisation and the industry,” he said.

“I like to think of myself as someone who is innovative and collaborative, and I never shy away from a challenge.

“I have a lot of ideas and a great team of volunteers and staff around me to start implementing them.

“Increasing SCA’s brand identity, delivering consistent standards of education, fostering a good working environment for our staff and volunteers and building our ethical standards will be my priorities, and I’m rolling up my sleeves and setting to work straight away.”

SCA Australasia CEO Alisha Fisher welcomed Josh to the role, and spoke warmly about Chris’ contribution to the sector.

“Chris has been an incredible president and will leave a lasting legacy for SCA as someone who always chose collaboration and conversation and knitted so much of the industry together,” she said.

“He has achieved so much in the three years with SCA Australasia, and he will be missed.

 

“At just 33, Josh has already accumulated 13 years of experience in the strata industry and his career journey of choosing and specialising in strata from the beginning of his career showcases an industry growing in stature and recognition.

 

“He’s committed, he’s bright and he cares about the industry – I’m really looking forward to continuing to carry out the Board and the organisation’s shared vision with him at the helm,” said Ms Fisher.

Please join us in welcoming Joshua Baldwin as our new SCA Australasia President. As we embark on this new chapter, we encourage all members to get involved, share your ideas, and support Joshua in his efforts to lead our association forward towards even greater heights.

Minns Labor Government to Unveil New Strata Laws

The Minns Labor Government has unveiled plans to introduce new laws targeting the management of strata communities across NSW. These measures are aimed at improving transparency, curbing misconduct and protecting residents in apartments and townhouses.

The proposed reforms include:

  • Raising the maximum penalties and penalty infringement notices to deter non-compliance, particularly regarding existing obligations by agents to disclose information about commissions.
  • Strengthening the conflict-of-interest disclosure requirements to prevent agents from exploiting their positions for personal and/or financial gain.
  • Prohibiting agents from receiving a commission on insurance products in cases where they do not assist residents in securing the best deals, ensuring fairer practices.
  • Improving NSW Fair Trading’s enforcement and compliance powers to ensure agents adhere to the new regulations.

 

See SCA NSW’s Statement on the reforms

 

These reforms follow an $8.4 million investment to bolster resources for the Strata and Property Services Commissioner as part of the NSW 2024-25 Budget.

Anoulack Chanthivong, Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, emphasised the reform’s role in building trust and confidence in strata living.

 

” The new laws are designed to take immediate action to help restore confidence in living and investing in strata schemes, ensuring more people consider apartment living as a housing option”

 

Moving forward, the government plans to engage with key stakeholders, including the Owners Corporation Network and Strata Community Association NSW, to refine the draft laws before their presentation to Parliament later this year.

SCA NSW Statement

SCA NSW SCA (NSW) Statement

Wednesday 26 June 2024

Craig Meagher, CEO, SCA (NSW)

 

Strata Community Association (SCA) NSW, the peak body for the strata sector in the state, strongly supports new measures the NSW Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Anoulack Chanthivong, announced on Wednesday 26 June.

The SCA has long advocated for sensible and progressive regulation in NSW that will improve practices across the entire strata sector – for the benefit of consumers and the sector alike.

 

SCA (NSW) has been working closely with the NSW Government to address key issues in the strata sector, including in relation to conflicts of interest, disclosures and commissions. Specifically, SCA (NSW) has:

 

  • supported the creation and funding of the NSW Property and Strata Services Commissioner, currently led by John Minns, and is a lead participant in engagement with the office;
  • actively participated in the recent review of the Strata Schemes Management Act, and in consultations on regulation to improve building quality, training and regulation in the building sector in NSW;
  • led the request – see joint letter – for additional resourcing of the NSW Strata and Property Services Commissioner in collaboration with strata consumer organisations including OCN, ACIL and ACSL; and
  • spearheaded initiatives to improve and strengthen disclosure requirements and conflicts of interest.

 

Additionally, improving practice in the strata sector has been a critical priority for SCA over the last few years, with activity intensifying on this front over the last several months, including:

 

  • fast-tracking and introducing the enforceable SCA Best Practice Insurance Disclosure Guide;
  • appointing a new independent Complaints Chair, Stephen Phillips; and
  • committing to producing a best practice guide for ethical practice informed by independent research.

 

The NSW Strata community thanks the Minns Government for their consultation and subsequent action to improve the sector, and look forward to continuous engagement going forward.

 

Member enquiries: enquiries.nsw@strata.community

Media enquiries: Please send all media enquiries to media@strata.community.

GOVT confirms $55.2 million for improved housing, fair deal for renters and strata communities.

In an exciting update from the 2024-25 NSW Budget. The government is putting $55.2 million into improving housing, making life easier for renters, and strata communities.

Advocacy Win for strata

Following collaborative, sector-wide campaigning from strata industry and consumer groups. $11.8 million is set aside for the Strata and Property Services Commissioner to educate owners corporations. Also, $3.5 million over the next two years will be dedicated to the Strata Hub, which will centralise information for people living in or owning strata properties.

Better Quality Homes

$35 million is going to the Building Commission NSW to upgrade their digital tools and improve building standards across the state.

Fairer Deal for Renters

They’re also dedicating $8.4 million to hire more rental inspectors and engagement officers to help the Rental Commissioner enforce quality standards for rentals.

For further information head to the NSW Govt website – A Budget to deliver more houses and better homes | NSW Government