Strata Reform Must Top Next Government’s Agenda

Strata reform must be one of the first bills presented to parliament by whichever party takes control after next year’s State election.

After a decade of inactivity, where reforms, such as the introduction of community titles, have been announced but never passed, action is needed now to encourage precinct development which will promote greater housing choice and create liveable communities.

“Worryingly, WA is the only state in Australia which doesn’t have legislation which allows for community titles – South Australia were the last state to introduce reforms in 1996. In a modern city, where we are seeing more and more people choosing to live in strata properties, including apartments, this is simply unacceptable,” Property Council WA Executive Director Lino Iacomella said.

“Our antiquated strata laws are stifling sustainable growth in and around suburban centres and strategic infrastructure investments like train stations while stalling urgent urban regeneration.”

“The introduction of community titles will encourage larger scale precinct-style housing development to occur in WA, like other states. This includes more mixed use development which offers greater amenity and job opportunities to residents.”

Scott Bellerby, General Manager, Bell Court Strata Management, and Councillor, Strata Community Australia, echoed the Property Council’s calls. He said: “It is disappointing that after a decade Landgate has still been unable to deliver the necessary amendments to the Strata Titles Act, thus enabling more progressive developments and the means to efficiently manage them,”

“Reforms will enable better management of mixed use developments, and will untangle the system which currently does not distinguish between the commercial and residential areas of mix used developments. Additionally, reform will allow for better regulation of the strata industry to ensure that owners living in strata schemes are provided with adequate protection.”

 

 

Media contact:  Lino Iacomella  |  M  0417 1 974   |   E  [email protected]