Strata management in Perth is governed primarily by the Strata Titles Act of 1985, which has undergone significant reforms in recent years.
These reforms, which resulted in major amendments that came into operation on 1 May 2020, have served to enhance the legislation and improve the management of strata schemes, ensuring that both owners and occupiers have a clearer understanding of their rights and responsibilities.
Current Calls for Further Reform
Recently, there have been calls for an additional review, with the Western Australian Government announcing its intention to further examine strata living laws, with a particular focus on the Strata Titles Act of 1985 and its amendments in 2020. This review aims to gain a better understanding of the standards and practices of strata managers.
One potential outcome of this review is the introduction of a more stringent licencing system for strata managers, intended to increase accountability. This step has become increasingly necessary, as numerous cases have arisen of unscrupulous strata managers exploiting tenants in unethical and, at times, potentially fraudulent ways.
However, there are concerns about the financial impact of increased licencing requirements. Minister for Lands John Carey has expressed concern that a stricter licencing system could result in higher costs for consumers or strata owners. With housing expenses already high in major urban centres like Perth, such additional costs could exacerbate affordability issues.
Impacts of the 2020 Reforms and Future Prospects
The 2020 reforms introduced significant buyer protections and dispute resolution mechanisms, marking a substantial improvement over the previous 1985 legislation. These changes have already made strata scheme managers more accountable.
Further reforms are still in the pipeline will take time to implement. The current review of the strata scheme legislation must undergo two consultation periods, the second of which is scheduled for mid-2025.
The Western Australian Government is not alone in this endeavour. Other state governments, such as those in New South Wales and Queensland, have shown their support for a national review of the strata scheme sector.
The goal of the Western Australian Government is to create fairer and clearer strata arrangements for all stakeholders in this sector, which currently includes approximately 340,000 strata properties that house about a quarter of Western Australia’s population.
Here at Strata Manager Finder WA, we specialise in helping strata schemes find the right strata management in Perth and regional Western Australia. Get a free quote today!
