Strata

Owners Corporation

When you buy into strata, you automatically become a member of what's now called the Owners Corporation (OC), which collectively owns and manages common property (e.g. roofs, driveways, balconies, stairwells). You share responsibility for decision-making and upkeep. Major decisions are made at general meetings where you can vote and raise issues.

Strata Committee

The Strata Committee at Kimberley Estate is made up of volunteer owners elected each year to represent the interests of all owners. They work closely with the Strata Manager and Building Manager on matters such as maintenance, budgeting, by-law enforcement and problem-solving. While they don’t directly manage the complex, their role is essential to keeping everything running smoothly for the benefit of the whole community.

Committee membership is entirely voluntary and while the monthly meetings are open to all owners, much of their work happens behind the scenes, often without recognition. From reviewing quotes and planning upgrades to responding to resident concerns, their contributions are both valuable and appreciated. If you see a committee member, a simple thank you can go a long way.

Communication & Disputes

Issues are typically resolved first through the strata committee or strata manager. If needed, the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) can mediate or adjudicate disputes over by-laws, levies, repairs, or committee decisions.

Owners Pay Ongoing Strata Levies

Regular payments (levies) are required to cover building insurance, maintenance, administration, and long-term repairs (via the capital works fund). Be aware of special levies, which may be raised for unexpected costs if the building is underfunded.

By-laws Govern What You Can and Can’t Do

All Residential stratas have their own rules or by-laws, covering things like pets, noise, renovations and parking. You are legally bound by these by-laws and can be fined for breaching them. Always read the by-laws before moving in or making changes.

Charging EVs and Other Batteries on Common Property

In New South Wales, strata residents are generally prohibited from using common property power outlets to charge electric vehicles (EVs), e-bikes, or other batteries unless explicitly permitted by a by-law. Unauthorised use of common electricity for personal charging is considered improper and may be deemed electricity theft, as it unfairly shifts private energy costs to all owners.

Your Responsibilities as a Lot Owner

Owning a strata property in NSW means understanding your financial responsibilities and shared living rules. You're generally responsible for repairs inside your lot, while the owners corporation maintains common areas like roofs and shared facilities.

10-year Capital Works Plan

Under the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 (NSW), every Owners Corporation is legally required to have a 10-year Capital Works Plan (previously known as a sinking fund forecast). This plan sets out anticipated major repairs and replacement costs for common property such as roofs, façades, lifts, waterproofing, fire services, and air conditioning systems. A qualified Quantity Surveyor is typically engaged to prepare the plan, which must be reviewed and if necessary, updated at least every five years. Each year at the Annual General Meeting, the Owners Corporation must set levies to ensure the capital works fund is sufficiently resourced to cover upcoming items listed in the plan. Maintaining an up-to-date and realistic Capital Works Plan is essential not only for compliance but for responsible financial management. It helps avoid unexpected special levies, provides transparency for all lot owners, supports long-term asset preservation, and ensures the Owners Corporation meets its obligations to maintain and repair common property under section 106 of the Act.