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 Tasmania.
Tasmania has a small strata presence with 38,919 lots across 10,537 schemes. Here are some other highlights of the latest research about the Tasmanian strata market:
- 8% of the population live in strata (compared to 15% nationally).
- 88% of Tasmanian strata schemes contain 5 lots or fewer.
- 48% of residents are aged between 20 – 39.
What makes Tasmania’s strata sector distinctive?
- Dominance of small schemes: Tasmania has the highest proportion of micro-schemes in Australia, with 88% of strata schemes containing five lots or fewer. By comparison, South Australia has 74% of schemes with ≤5 lots, and New South Wales has 53%.
- Integrated legislative framework without separate community titles: Tasmania lacks a separate community title system. Instead, the Strata Titles Act 1998 governs both strata and community development schemes. This single framework simplifies mixed-use developments (e.g., combining residential, commercial, and shared facilities under one body corporate) but limits specialised governance tools available in states like Queensland.
- Reactive maintenance culture: The state lacks mandated long-term maintenance plans, unlike other states, which require capital works frameworks of ten years or more. With the lowest total insured value nationally ($20 billion), Tasmania’s reactive approach to maintenance, often deferring works until emergencies arise, increases financial risks for owners compared to more regulated states.
Tasmania’s strata sector is defined by its predominance of ultra-small, self-managed schemes and a streamlined legislative framework that simplifies governance for owners. The state’s small-scale growth and low reliance on professional management reflect a market shaped by local needs rather than large-scale development trends.
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.
