Understanding Property Ownership Structures: Owners Corporation, Strata Title, and Body Corporate Explained 

Roles & Responsibilities
Written By Narada Kapao | StrataYou

Buying an apartment, townhouse, or shared property is exciting, but the legal terms “Owners Corporation”, “Strata Title”, “Body Corporate” can be confusing. Knowing what they mean helps you avoid surprises and make smarter property decisions. 

This guide breaks down these common terms and connects you to the laws that define them, so you can confidently navigate property ownership and management, no matter where you live in Australia. 

Owners Corporation:  

A Friendly Overview 

An Owners Corporation is a community of property owners who share responsibilities for the common areas of their building or estate. They manage and maintain spaces like hallways, gardens, or pools and make decisions about repairs, rules, and insurance. 

When you buy an apartment in these states, you automatically become part of the Owners Corporation and pay levies to help fund maintenance and repairs. 

Strata Title:  

The Foundation of Shared Living 

Strata Title is the legal system that gives you ownership of your unit or lot and joint ownership over shared spaces. It’s registered with the government and proves what’s yours and what’s communal. 

A good first step when buying is always to review the Strata Title for your property, making sure you understand your rights and the extent of your responsibilities and where you property airspace starts and ends and what is yours. Best place to start in the Strata Plan. 

Body Corporate:  

The Managing Group 

Body Corporate is the term used mainly in Queensland (and some other regions or older documents) for the group managing shared property matters just like the Owners Corporation. 

They collect levies, organize maintenance, set rules, and keep the property running smoothly. Good management helps preserve your community’s value and comfort. 

Comparing the Terms 

Term 

Meaning 

Where Used 

Legislation Link 

Owners Corporation 

Committee of owners managing shared property 

VIC, NSW (and some other states) 

VIC / NSW 

Strata Title 

The legal system splitting property into private and shared areas 

All states/territories 

See links above 

Body Corporate 

Managing group/committee for shared property 

QLD, NT, older terminology in other states 

QLD / NT 

In most cases, Owners Corporation and Body Corporate do the same job they manage the community and common areas. 

Top Tips for Buyers and Owners 

  • Check your legislation: The name and rules change depending on where your property is. 

  • Read your strata or ownership documents carefully: Know your rights and duties. 

  • Participate in meetings: Stay up to date on decisions that could affect your fees or lifestyle. 

  • Review community bylaws/rules: Make sure they suit your needs. 

  • Consult professionals: If things are unclear, get legal or property advice. 

The final word 

Understanding the difference between Owners Corporation, Strata Title, and Body Corporate will help you make confident property decisions and enjoy the benefits of community living. 

Whenever you have questions, check your state government’s resources linked above knowing the rules in your area gives you peace of mind and helps protect your investment. 

Note: If you live or invest in more than one state, check each state's specific laws, as the terminology and responsibilities differ. For more, visit your state government’s official property and strata information website. 

Disclaimer: 

This article is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Readers should seek independent legal and professional guidance relevant to their specific circumstances and jurisdiction  

Narada Kapao | StrataYou

Narada is no stranger to the strata sector, having worked across a number of strata and property management services companies over the years—but owning in strata has given him an entirely new perspective.

As a new owner, he has seen firsthand the ups and downs of strata living, which has inspired him to help other owners better understand how it all works and how they can get the most out of both their unit and their community as a whole.

Together with his vast network of industry experts and trusted thought leaders (i.e. people who know a lot more than he does), Narada sheds light on key issues from across the strata sector in a simple and digestible way.

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