Understanding the difference between your strata manager and your building manager can help you know who to contact when issues arise. Read more to learn about their roles and responsibilities.

That empty concrete slab seems perfect for a few extra items a bike rack, maybe some shelves, boxes of unwanted clothes and crockery. But even though it’s your space, strata laws treat parking areas differently from private property. Here’s what you can (and can’t) store in an open car space without breaching by-laws or safety regulations. 

If you’ve been appointed Chairperson of your committee (or stepping in to chair a meeting), congratulations and don’t panic.  

Chairing a strata or community association meeting doesn’t require legal training or a big booming voice. It simply takes preparation, a fair approach, and an understanding of how strata an community meetings work. 

This beginner’s guide will walk you through your responsibilities and provide a handy checklist to help you run your first meeting smoothly and confidently. 

(A fast, fuss-free guide to meeting records for strata and community schemes) 

Taking minutes doesn’t need to be a headache or take all night. Whether you’re in a self-managed strata or community scheme, or just an active committee who undertake their own meetings, the aim is simple: record what was decided and who will do it. That’s it. Minutes are not a novel; they’re a record. 

(A stress-free guide for strata & community schemes) 

A good meeting starts with a good agenda. In strata and community schemes especially if you’re self-managed the agenda is your map. Without one, meetings can meander, tempers can flare, and you’ll probably forget the thing you actually needed to decide. 

Luckily, drafting an agenda isn’t rocket science. Here’s how to get it done without losing your evening (or your patience).

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. 

In the bustling world of modern high-rise apartment complexes the concierge has become more than just a familiar face at the front desk.  

As the first point of contact for guests, deliveries, and resident requests, concierges play a crucial role in maintaining the daily rhythm and security of residential communities. But as their responsibilities grow, so does the need for clear and respectful communication from residents, experts say. 

In the rapidly evolving landscape of urban living, the expectations of residents have shifted dramatically. No longer is a home simply a place to sleep and store belongings; today’s residents seek an environment that offers comfort, safety, convenience, and a sense of belonging. In response, residential buildings are increasingly adopting amenities once reserved for luxury hotels chief among them, the concierge. Once a symbol of exclusivity, the concierge has become a cornerstone of modern residential communities, offering a unique blend of personalized service, vigilant security, and community-building initiatives that together enhance daily living and increase property value. 

Strata and community title living is on the rise, and with it comes the need for skilled professionals to keep these shared spaces running smoothly. Enter the building and facility manager—an indispensable figure whose expertise ensures residents enjoy a harmonious, efficient, and sustainable living environment. 

Renting within a strata or community title property offers a unique living experience, especially in urban areas like Sydney. These properties, such as apartments, townhouses, and villas, involve shared ownership of common areas and are governed by specific laws and regulations. Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in these settings is crucial for harmonious living. 

As more Australians seek autonomy and cost savings in managing their apartment buildings and townhouse complexes, self-managed strata schemes are gaining traction. While this approach offers significant benefits including lower costs and greater control it also presents complex challenges that require careful planning and, increasingly, creative hybrid solutions. 

Strata and community title living is an increasingly popular choice across Australia, offering shared amenities, maintained common areas, and a built-in sense of community. However, behind the scenes of every well-run strata or community scheme lies a framework of clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Understanding who does what is essential for smooth operation, effective decision-making, and harmonious living. 

Explaining the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in strata and community living 

Strata and community title living is an increasingly popular choice across Australia, offering shared amenities, maintained common areas, and a built-in sense of community. However, behind the scenes of every well-run strata or community scheme lies a framework of clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Understanding who does what is essential for smooth operation, effective decision-making, and harmonious living. 

In an era where digital communication dominates, it’s easy to overlook the people behind every email, message, or notification. Nowhere is this more evident than in strata communities, where residents, committee members, and strata managers must collaborate to maintain harmonious and well-functioning buildings. Take time to remember the human element in strata communication, emphasising that empathy, patience, and respect are key to a thriving community. 

Buying into a strata or community title scheme is quite different from purchasing a freestanding house. While these types of property ownership can offer convenience, shared amenities, and a sense of community, they also come with a unique set of responsibilities, rules, and financial obligations. If you’re considering purchasing a unit, townhouse, or apartment within a strata or community scheme in Australia, here’s what you need to know before signing the contract. 

Strategies for managing common issues related to noise and privacy 

Living in strata and other types of community title schemes offers many advantages, including shared amenities, reduced maintenance responsibilities, and a sense of community. However, close proximity to neighbours can also bring challenges, especially when it comes to noise and privacy. These are two of the most common complaints in shared living environments across Australia. 

Levies are a fundamental aspect of community and strata living in Australia. They fund the maintenance and management of common areas, insurance, and other shared expenses. However, when these levies become unreasonably high, they can place a significant financial strain on property owners.

Whether it's footsteps from the unit above, loud conversations next door, or traffic from a nearby street, noise can seriously impact the comfort and quality of life in an apartment. This article explores practical tips for reducing noise in and out of your apartment.

If you live in or own an apartment in a strata scheme, knowing the difference between lot property and common property is essential. This guide breaks it down simply, helping you understand what falls within your lot, what’s shared, and why those distinctions matter for everything from renovations to insurance.

Holding your Annual General Meeting (AGM) doesn’t need to be a headache. With a little planning, a clear agenda, and a good grasp of your legal obligations, you can run a smooth, productive meeting that sets your scheme up for success.