We are pleased to share with you a copy of our presentation, ‘Recent Changes to Strata Laws,’ (click on the red button below) prepared by JS Mueller & Co Strata Lawyers. This comprehensive document outlines the significant updates to strata legislation taking effect on July 1, 2025, and those anticipated later in the year.

It provides essential insights into the crucial changes impacting strata management agency agreements, unfair contract terms, strata committee duties, minor renovations, and much more. 

Our presentation has been designed to help you navigate the evolving landscape of strata law and provides important and essential information on the following new strata laws:

New Strata Laws from 1 July 2025

• Strata management agency agreements
• Unfair contract terms
• Strata committee duties
• Minor renovations
• Strata inspection fees
• By-laws
• Delaying repairs and maintenance
• Sustainability infrastructure
• Accessibility infrastructure
• Assistance animals

New Strata Laws Later in 2025

• Fair Trading’s powers
• Mandatory training for strata committees
• Levy collection practice and procedure
• Building manager duties

Staying informed is key to effective strata management and compliance. For specific guidance tailored to your unique circumstances, we encourage you to contact our expert specialist strata legal team. 

YOUR GUIDE TO THE NEW STATA LAWS HERE

Adrian Mueller I BCOM LLB FACCAL I Partner

Since 2002 Adrian has specialised almost exclusively in the area of strata law. His knowledge of, and experience in strata law is second to none. He is the youngest person to have been admitted as a Fellow of the ACSL, the peak body for strata lawyers in Australia. Profile I Linked

Contact Us

For all strata law advice including by-laws, building defects and levy collections contact our specialist NSW and Sydney strata lawyers here or call 02 9562 1266, we’re happy to assist.

While the focus has been on strata reforms, equally critical changes are coming to Community Schemes (Community, Precinct, and Neighbourhood Associations) under the Community Land Management Act 2021 (CLMA) from July 1, 2025. Stage 1 of these reforms will significantly impact how community schemes are managed and governed.

Here’s what you need to know about stage 1:

1. Managers: Enhanced Transparency & New Reporting (Critical!)

• New Disclosure Rules: Before and during your appointment, you must disclose all connections with suppliers (e.g., referral fees, shared interests). You now need Community Association approval for any commissions or training services not in your initial agreement.
• Six-Monthly Reports: You will now be required to report on your functions to the Community Association every six months, not annually.
• Penalties: Failure to comply carries substantial fines (up to $55,000 for corporations, $11,000 for individuals).
• Action: Immediately update your agency agreements, internal processes, and reporting templates.

2. Executive Committees: Stronger Duties & Training Ahead

• Elevated Responsibilities: Committee members will have enhanced duties, similar to company directors (honesty, fairness, due diligence, acting in the Association’s best interest).
• Mandatory Training: While details are pending, mandatory training for executive committee members is coming.
• Action: Advise committees of their expanded role and the need to stay informed about upcoming training.

3. Common Property & Defects: Clearer Maintenance Duty

• Duty to Maintain: The Community Association’s duty to maintain common property now explicitly includes original building defects. Safety and access issues cannot be deferred.
• Fair Trading Powers: NSW Fair Trading gains new powers to enforce maintenance duties on Community Associations (compliance notices, investigations).
• Extended Claims: Lot owners now have six years (up from two) to claim damages for maintenance failures.
• Action: Prioritise maintenance, especially for safety/access. Review capital works planning with these expanded duties in mind.

4. Encouraging Sustainability & Accessibility

• Easier Approvals: By-laws banning sustainability upgrades (e.g., solar, EV charging) based solely on appearance are now banned (unless heritage-listed). Most accessibility upgrades now only require a simple majority vote.
• AGM Focus: Sustainability must now be a mandatory item at every AGM.
• Action: Encourage schemes to explore and implement green and accessible improvements.

For more information visit NSW Government 

Crucial Next Steps for Community Scheme Mangers:

These reforms are not minor tweaks; they reshape how Community Schemes are governed and managed.

Ensure you are fully compliant and can confidently guide your Community Association clients.

It is advised that you seek legal advice from a team who understands the new Community Land Laws such JS Mueller & Co Strata Lawyers who has extensive experience in Community Land Laws and can help you with tailored advice on:

• Updating your management agreements.
• Compliance strategies for new disclosure and reporting.
• Navigating enhanced committee duties and maintenance obligations.
• Facilitating sustainability and accessibility projects.

Adrian Mueller I BCOM LLB FACCAL I Partner

Since 2002 Adrian has specialised almost exclusively in the area of strata law. His knowledge of, and experience in strata law is second to none. He is the youngest person to have been admitted as a Fellow of the ACSL, the peak body for strata lawyers in Australia. Profile I Linked

FOR COMUNITY SCHEME LEGAL ADVICE CLICK HERE NOW!

Contact Us

For all strata law advice including by-laws, building defects and levy collections contact our specialist NSW and Sydney strata lawyers here or call 02 9562 1266, we’re happy to assist.