Strata Titles (General) Regulations 2019 Amendments Phase Two consultation submission
The Strata Community Association (WA) is dedicated to raising standards across the strata sector, ensuring that strata managers are well-trained, well-qualified, and equipped to provide high-quality services to owners and residents. As part of this commitment, SCA (WA) has provided a detailed submission to Landgate regarding the Lands Regulations (Community and Strata Titles) Amendment Regulations (No. 2) 2024.
SCA (WA) participated in phase two of the consultation in late 2024, providing a submission to Landgate supporting the proposed amendments aimed at improving strata management education and professionalism, whilst highlighting key areas requiring further clarification and refinement to ensure the best outcomes for strata managers, property owners, and service providers.
Defining Roles Clearly
The draft regulations introduce new definitions for Principals, Strata Community Managers, and Assistant Strata Community Managers. However, inconsistencies between the consultation guide and draft regulations could create confusion. SCA (WA) has recommended clearer distinctions between these roles, particularly regarding supervision responsibilities and education requirements.
Education and Experience Requirements
SCA (WA) strongly supports higher education standards but has called for adjustments to ensure fairness and practical implementation. Specifically, we recommend removing rigid course codes from the regulations to prevent unnecessary future amendments and ensuring that previous qualifications remain recognised. SCA (WA) continues to advocate for education standards across the sector and recommends individuals classified as a “qualified person” but who have not completed formal qualifications in strata community management, be required to complete additional units to ensure they have the necessary strata-specific expertise.
Pathways for Growth and Industry Development
The proposed definition of a Principal would require all directors and partners of strata management businesses to hold a Certificate IV in Strata Community Management, even if they do not directly manage schemes. This could inadvertently limit business growth. SCA (WA) has suggested refining this requirement to focus on those with operational responsibility.
Consistency and Practicality in Transition
The draft regulations introduce education and experience thresholds for different strata management roles. SCA (WA) supports this initiative but has proposed refinements to ensure smooth transitions, prevent loopholes, and ensure that strata professionals receive relevant, accessible training.
With over 260,000 strata lots and more than 133,000 strata-titled properties in WA, ensuring that strata managers are highly skilled and well-supported is critical. The proposed regulations represent a positive step forward, but thoughtful adjustments are needed to ensure they are fair, practical, and effective.
SCA (WA) will continue working closely with Landgate and other stakeholders to advocate for a strong, professional, and well-regulated strata sector that benefits all Western Australians.
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