Strata Community Association (NSW) welcomes new board and president.

SCA (NSW), the PEAK body for the strata sector in New South Wales, is pleased to announce that the nine vacant board member positions have been filled.

On Wednesday, October 23, 2024 the members of SCA (NSW) elected nine board member positions.  In a year when a constitutional change had seen all six strata manager chapter, and three strata services chapter positions become available. 

New President Elected

SCA (NSW) is pleased to welcome back Life Member Robert Anderson to the SCA (NSW) board, as well as congratulate him for agreeing to take on the role as President for SCA (NSW).

A previous President’s Award winner in 2006, Robert Anderson brings 30 years of strata experience to the board.  Robert previously served as President of SCA (NSW), then known as the ISTM, from October 2000 through to early 2003. Overseeing the pivotal first few years post-merger between the ISTM and SCIA associations. 

Senior Vice-President and Vice-Presidents Elected:

The longest concurrent serving SCA (NSW) Board Member, Liza Perera was re-elected to the board and will also take on the role of Senior Vice-President.

Liza Perera is the CEO of the Strata Plus Group and was appointed to the SCA (NSW) board in 2022. She has a long relationship with the strata sector spanning over 15 years and has previously worked closely with both SCA (National) and SCA (NSW) during her time at Macquarie Bank.

Whilst board members Roderick Smith and Matthew Jenkins have taken on leadership roles as Vice-Presidents. 

 

Professional Manager Chapter

During the SCA (NSW) Board Election process, the association elected six board members to fill the six vacant positions in the Professional Strata Manager Chapter.

Robert Anderson and Liza Perera filled two of those positions, here are the additional four members:

Roderick Smith:

Roderick joins the SCA (NSW) board as an elected member, having served the past 3 months as an interim director.  Roderick will also take on the position of vice-president alongside Matthew Jenkins.  

He is the Managing Director and Founder of The Strata Collective, an award winning Medium Size Strata Management Business located in the CBD of Sydney. Specialising in the management of prestigious and complex strata schemes, community associations and building management committees, Roderick brings a high level of technical experience to his team and clients.

 

Natalie Fitzgerald:

Natalie is an award-winning strata manager with over 22 years’ experience in the sector. She is the Licensee-in-Charge and a Director at Genesis Strata Management. Natalie is an advocate for mental wellbeing and radical compassion, bringing a leadership style that centres on honesty, communication and empathy. This commitment to kindness and respect extends to her team, her customers and her strata sector colleagues.

Natalie is a sought-after guest speaker and facilitator and has presented for City of Sydney, University of New South Wales, Griffith University, Deakin University as well as the Owners Corporation Network and Strata Communities Australasia. She has been a podcast guest on Your Strata Property and Courageous Conversations.

 

Leanne Habib:

Leanne Habib is the CEO of Premium Strata and was appointed to the SCA (NSW) Board in 2024. With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years, she is a licensed Strata and Community Manager as well as a Real Estate Managing Agent. Leanne has redefined premium strata service by developing a client-centred approach through her years in senior roles at top-tier agencies. Her commitment to service ensures client expectations are not only met but consistently exceeded.

In addition to her role on the SCA (NSW) Board, Leanne actively participates in industry events and forums. She also serves as a board member of Australian Apartment Advocacy (AAA) and contributes to LookUpStrata, driving initiatives to address strata queries and clarify legislation, bridging the gap between owners and the industry.

 

James Stewart:

Like Rod, James joins the board for the first time as a fully elected member, having also served 3 months in an interim role.

With nearly two decades of experience in strata management, James is the Managing Director at Altitude Body Corporate & Management Pty Ltd.

As a regional strata management advocator, James strives to improve the standards and practices within the industry, ensuring that both clients and communities benefit from efficient management services.

Strata Services Chapter

During the SCA (NSW) Board Nomination process, the association elected three board members to fill the three vacant positions in the Strata Services Chapter.

Matthew Jenkins:

Matthew has returned to the board after previously being elected in 2023 and will work alongside Roderick Smith as Vice-President.

Matthew heads the strata team at Bannermans Lawyers, where is he also a partner, and has over 15 years extensive experience in all aspects of strata and community title law bringing a wealth of knowledge to the board.

Peter Berney:

A previous Max Dun award winner, Peter has been a member of the association since 2007. In 2010, Peter became the first supplier services professional elected to the SCA(Vic) board.

A natural networker and organiser of strata events, that same year he was asked to join the NSW Events, Suppliers Chapter, plus the Vic, Qld, and National Events Committees.

Edwina Feilen:

For the past 24 years Edwina has worked in the insurance sector, mainly within Sedgwick’s Building Consultancy division.

Her passion lies in resolving building related issues in the most streamlined manner, with a proactive lense to addressing building defects/maintenance, forensic investigations, preparation of scope of works/specifications  through to the replacement of combustible cladding.

As Manager, Business Solutions she has dedicated much time and energy to working in collaboration with strata clients and the sector more broadly.

Simon George has been re-appointed as an independent board member.

SCA (NSW) would like to thank departing board members Tony Irvine, Anne-Maree Paull, Emily Doherty, Geoff Linders, Dilber Beattie, Jill Walshaw, Caroline McConnachie, Kirsten Terry and Stephen Brell. We thank them for their over 25 years of combined service to SCA (NSW).

On behalf of the SCA (NSW) membership, we’d like to congratulate and welcome our new board members.

5 Simple Steps for Managing Successful Security projects

Upgrading a security system for a Strata building can be daunting for both Strata Managers and the Owners Corporation.

How do you compare three quotes with different scopes and prices?

What’s a reliable product? and is it really what the Owners want or need?

By following five simple steps, you can reduce your workload, find the right contractor, and install a security system that will work for the Owners for years to come.

Step 1: What do you want to achieve with this project?

 

Create a Project Brief with the Committee. This document is designed to assist Committees or Strata Managers in identifying important information regarding the security upgrade planned for their building. It also enables discussion and an informed decision on whether to proceed with the installation after considering the Legal aspects and costs involved in the Project.

 

Step 2: Apples for Apples. How to get three similar quotes.

 

Create a Scope of Work for your Contractors: On agreement that the security system will be installed, the information in the Project Brief can be easily exported to a Scope of Works document that can be issued to the three preferred suppliers, enabling them to quote accurately and equally for the work.

 

Step 3: Who’s the right contractor for the Project?

 

Compare quotes and contractors with an easy-to-use checklist. Make sure your contractor has the right experience and is the right company size for the work they are taking on. Where can you see previous installations? Product warranty should also be included in the comparison. Price is important, but lifetime value is key.

 

Step 4: Ensuring a smooth installation

Ask your contractor for an implementation plan. When will the work be done, and when must residents be home? This includes fob and garage remote allocation sheets.

 

Step 5: What happens next? The important bit.

 

Passwords and warranty. It’s easy to heave a sigh of relief once the system is installed and invoices have been paid. But this shouldn’t be the end of the process; you’re missing the really important bit: passwords and warranty.

You must record vital information about the new systems that will allow you to manage them in the future. Most modern security systems are password protected; without these passwords, no one can access the system to add new fobs or replace cameras or faulty equipment.

 

Quatrix Security is a leading Strata Security Company based in Sydney. With over 15 years in Strata and over 30,000 units upgraded, they have the skills and experience to service and upgrade your building.

Their dedicated Project Manager has managed complex Access Control, Intercom and CCTV projects across Sydney and Europewide projects. Your upgrade Projects are in safe hands.

Please contact us on info@quatrix.com.au for Project templates for your upcoming work.

 

Convention Highlights – Leadership Skills Demonstrated in Establishing a Business

Day 2 of the SCA (NSW) Convention ended with an inspiring session by Olivia Jenkins, a multi-award-winning Business & Marketing Consultant known for her expertise in transforming brands into industry leaders.

Since mid-2019, her firm has helped clients generate over $65 million in sales, making them stand out in their respective fields. Whether you are new to leadership or looking to redefine your leadership identity, Olivia’s session offered invaluable insights and practical tools for aspiring leaders. Here are the key takeaways from her discussion.

The Five Levels of Leadership

Olivia began her session by introducing John Maxwell’s concept of the Five Levels of Leadership, which outlines a progressive framework for developing effective leadership skills

Position – This is the most basic level of leadership. Here, a leader holds a position of authority, but their influence is limited to their title. For example, a manager may have control over their team simply because they are the boss, but they may not inspire loyalty or respect.

Permission—At this level, leaders gain influence by building relationships. They earn trust and respect from their team, creating an environment where collaboration thrives. For instance, a supervisor who actively listens to team members’ ideas creates a positive atmosphere where employees feel valued.

Production – Leaders at this level are results-driven. They demonstrate the ability to achieve goals and inspire their teams to do the same. An effective team leader who consistently meets targets while motivating their team exemplifies this level.

People Development: This level focuses on mentoring and developing others. Great leaders take the time to nurture their team’s talents and help them grow. For example, a manager who offers training sessions or opportunities for professional development is investing in their team’s future.

Pinnacle – The highest level of leadership is characterised by the ability to create a legacy. Leaders at this stage are respected not just for their accomplishments but also for their ability to develop future leaders. An example would be a CEO who has built a strong succession plan, ensuring that the company will thrive long after they’ve moved on.

Visionaries vs. Integrators

 

Next, Olivia distinguished between visionaries and integrators—two crucial types of leaders in any organisation:

Visionaries are the big-picture thinkers. They dream big and inspire others with their innovative ideas and goals. For example, a startup founder who envisions a groundbreaking product and passionately shares that vision can rally a team around a common purpose.

Integrators, on the other hand, are the detail-oriented leaders who bring those visions to life. They excel at organising resources, coordinating efforts, and executing plans. An integrator might be a project manager who ensures that every step of a project is on track, aligning the team’s efforts with the overall vision.

Olivia emphasised that both roles are essential for a business’s success. A visionary can dream up exciting possibilities, but without an integrator, those ideas may never materialise. Influential leaders need to balance both qualities, creating collaboration between visionaries and integrators to drive their organisations forward.

 

Great Leaders Don’t Create Followers; They Create More Leaders

 

At the end of the session, Olivia’s most powerful message was the idea that great leaders focus on developing other leaders. Instead of seeking followers, they aim to inspire and empower their team members to take on leadership roles themselves.

Strata Managers Checklist for Choosing the Right Painting Company

When looking to engage a painting company for your strata building, it’s crucial to follow a thorough checklist to ensure a successful project.

Our friends over at Premier Painting have created a comprehensive checklist to guide you throughout the process and ensure a high-quality job.  Here are some essential considerations and steps to guide you:

1. Your Reasons for Painting

 

  • Involve the Owners’ Corporation Members: Start by engaging as many members of the Owners’ Corporation as possible to determine the primary reason for painting. This collaborative approach helps in understanding their needs and expectations.
  • Determine Painting Needs: Consider the specific reasons for painting, which could include refreshing the building’s appearance, changing colours, making repairs, undertaking complete renovations, protecting the building or performing annual maintenance.

 

2. Deciding on Who to Call for Scope of Works and Product Specifications

 

  • Assess Project Requirements: Understand the project requirements and any risks to understand the full scope of your project. This helps in identifying the specific needs and risks associated with the painting job.

 

3. Considerations in Sourcing a Reputable Painting Company

 

  • Experience and Specialisation: Look for painting companies that are established and experienced in the strata industry. Ensure that they are specialists for the specific project requirements.
  • Check Reputable Sources: Utilise resources like the SCA Trades Directory website to find a list of relevant and reputable painters who meet your criteria.

 

4. Things to Look Out For

 

  • Quality of Paint: Avoid using cheap brands of paint that might compromise the quality and longevity of the work.
  • Project Schedule Hold Points: Confirm that there are hold points on the project schedule to ensure quality checks at various stages.
  • Detailed Cost Schedule: Ensure you receive a detailed schedule of costs, including any subcontractors involved, to avoid unexpected expenses.

 

5. Quality Assurance
 
  • Engage a Technical Consultant: Ensure the selected painting company engages a technical consultant to oversee the project.
  • Site Visits and Monitoring: The technical consultant should visit the site at the times identified by your painter to monitor preparation and hold points.
  • Document Inspections: All inspections should be documented with minutes and photographic records of the works.
  • Paint Manual: At the completion of the project, ensure a paint manual is prepared by the technical consultant.

 

6. Choosing Colours

 

  • Hire a Colour Consultant: Engage a professional Colour Consultant to suggest two different colour schemes.
  • Committee Approval: Have the committee vote and agree on one of the suggested options. Ensure the final schedule is signed off by the Body Corporate before the commencement of works.
  • Apply Paint Samples: Make sure paint samples are applied to address any colour issues or concerns before full-scale application.

 

7. Compliance

 

Before the works commence, ensure you have copies of the following documents from the selected painting company:

 

  1. License
  2. Public Liability Insurance
  3. Workers Compensation Insurance
  4. Home Building Compensation Scheme (for jobs over $20,000)
  5. Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) along with a Risk Assessment
  6. Signed Contract (preferably SCA Strata Works Agreement)

 

By following this comprehensive checklist, you can ensure that your painting project for the strata building is conducted smoothly, efficiently and to the highest standards.

 

Premier Painting is a leader in painting services since 1997 with the experience and qualifications to manage complete end to end painting and maintenance services for Strata Owners. Award winning and accredited, our services are highly regarded for Strata Projects of all scopes.

7 Unmissable Conversations – 2024 SCA NSW Annual Convention

On the 23rd of October, the strata world will converge on the SCA NSW Convention. Bringing together the industry at a time when strata faces pivotal change and big conversations are needed!

 

Here are the 7 unmissable conversations happening at this year’s SCA NSW Convention:

#1 Front-Burner Topic – Remuneration Reform

 

The NSW government has made it clear; strata insurance remuneration reform is on the table.
In an unmissable conversation, our expert panel will delve into the major questions surrounding the potential reforms at the forefront of every strata stakeholder’s mind:  What does this look like? How will this affect the industry if it goes ahead? What would the time frames need to be? What’s the strata insurance industry’s reaction?

 

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#2 The Great Strata Debate – Strata has the Lowest Levels of Government Regulation

 

Does our industry leave the door open to cowboys and bad actors through a lack of regulation? Or are we already well ahead of the red tape line?
Join strata professionals Joshua Jasnos, Leanne Habib and a special guest, as they go head-to-head debating the age-old statement ‘Strata has the lowest levels of Government Regulation’.

 

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#3 Leadership skills demonstrated in establishing a business

 

Olivia Jenkins is a multi-award-winning Business & Marketing Consultant and the expert in transforming brands to cult-like status. Since mid-2019, her firm has helped clients generate over $65 million in sales, positioning clients as industry leaders.
Whether you’re new to leadership or looking to transform your leadership identity, Olivia’s session will give you the tools to start you on that mission.

 

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#4 Legal v Ethical – Dr Attracta Lagan

 

Just because it is legal does not mean it is ethical. Dr Attracta Lagan, a leading Australian ethicist, discusses conflicts of interest and the difference between ethical and legal.

 

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#5 A Conversation on Leadership – ‘World Leaders I’ve Met & Their Top 10 Leadership Qualities & Attributes’

 

John Howard is no stranger to making tough decisions in the face of adversity – a true definition of leadership. As the nation’s second-longest-serving Prime Minister, Mr Howard has met and worked with world leaders from across the political and social divide.
In this must-see session, Mr Howard recounts the world leaders he’s met and the qualities that made them leaders in their fields.

 

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#6 – Anoulack Chanthivong – The Government’s Plans for Strata In NSW

 

Be at the forefront of regulation in NSW strata with an update from the Hon. Anoulack Chanthivong, Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, and Minister for Building.

 

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#7 – Q&A with ‘Australia’s Go To Property Expert’

In this intimate Q&A session, Andrew will bridge the divide between being a practising Real Estate agent and the world of Strata Management, showcasing his wealth of knowledge whilst trying to navigate a few tricky questions about the state of the property industry.
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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.