We are a nation that speaks 8 separate strata dialects, yet the basic strata concepts are the same across the nation. So are the issues that trouble us. As we seek to understand what unites us and what divides us, this week our focus is Queensland.
Queensland has 539,154 lots across 52,920 schemes. Here are some other highlights of the latest research about the Queensland strata market:
· 13% of the population live in strata (compared to 15%nationally).
· 61% of Queensland strata schemes contain 5 lots or fewer.
· 44% of residents are aged between 20 – 39.
What makes Queensland's strata laws distinctive?
- A modular approach to legislation which a different regulation for different types of strata schemes resulting in over 1250 pages of strata legislation for the state
- The overarching duty of bodies corporate (the name for OCs in Qld) to act reasonably
- Long term management and letting rights contacts for up to 25 years able to be imposed and sold by developers
- Secret ballots and returning officers largely driven by conflicts about management and letting rights
Queensland's approach to strata governance demonstrates how regulatory frameworks can become captured by industry interests while simultaneously creating unique consumer protections, offering valuable lessons about balancing commercial development with owners’ rights. As we continue our exploration of Australia's diverse strata landscape, these regional differences highlight both our shared challenges and the unique approaches that have evolved to address them.
Michael Teys advises strata management businesses on improving profitability through professionalisation and streamlined operating systems.
He has more than 30 years’ experience as a strata lawyer and academic and has owned 11 strata management agencies throughout Australia. He has a Master of Philosophy (Built Environment) and Bachelor of Laws. He lectures and writes widely about strata management issues in Australia and internationally.
