Advancing the Future of Strata Management: Why SCA is Leading National Reform

Strata Community Association (SCA), Australia’s leading voice for strata managers, lot owners, and industry stakeholders, is spearheading national reform to elevate professional standards across the strata management sector. This initiative reflects our commitment to enhancing the quality, consistency, and reliability of strata management practices, benefiting millions of Australians who live and invest in strata communities.

The role of a strata manager is both complex and crucial, encompassing responsibilities that directly impact community harmony, financial stability, and property values. From financial oversight, dispute resolution, and administrative management to maintaining common property, a strata manager’s performance can significantly influence the quality of life within a strata community. When management practices fall short, the consequences can include escalating disputes, poorly maintained buildings, and financial mismanagement, eroding trust and community cohesion.

Recognising these critical issues, SCA Australasia President Joshua Baldwin underscores the need for reform. “Not all strata managers are created equal,” says Baldwin. “Poor management directly affects residents’ daily experiences, community harmony, and property values. Our mission is clear; we aim to ensure every strata manager across Australia meets high, consistent professional standards.”

At the heart of SCA’s advocacy for national reform are three specific measures aimed at transforming the professionalism and accountability of the strata management industry nationwide.

SCA proposes the establishment of national accreditation standards. Currently, accreditation standards for strata managers differ significantly from one state or territory to another, creating disparities in the quality and consistency of strata management services. SCA proposes establishing unified national accreditation standards. This initiative would create a clear and consistent benchmark across the country, ensuring strata managers possess the necessary qualifications, skills, and expertise, regardless of their location. For strata residents and lot owners, national accreditation means greater confidence and reliability when selecting strata management services.

Given the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape, technological advancements, and shifting community expectations, continuous professional development is critical for maintaining a competent and responsive strata management workforce. SCA advocates for mandatory ongoing education and training requirements. Regular professional development ensures strata managers remain up to date with legislative changes, industry best practices, and innovative management solutions. Ultimately, continuous education fosters higher standards of service, benefiting strata communities directly through enhanced operational efficiency, reduced disputes, and improved overall management quality.

Transparency, integrity, and accountability are foundational to effective strata management. Clearer, stronger ethical guidelines for service providers can significantly reduce mismanagement and conflicts of interest. SCA seeks to establish comprehensive ethical standards that clearly outline expected behaviours and practices for strata professionals. Robust ethical guidelines will improve trust between residents, committees, and strata managers, creating more harmonious communities and safeguarding residents’ financial investments.

Baldwin highlights why ethical management is essential, noting, “An ethical strata manager does more than simply fulfill administrative tasks—they actively safeguard residents’ long-term investments, foster community harmony, and uphold property values through transparent and responsible management practices.”

The benefits of professionalising strata management extend beyond the industry itself, significantly impacting Australia’s broader economy and community wellbeing. Enhanced management practices correlate directly with higher property values, reduced litigation and dispute costs, improved community satisfaction, and stronger financial stability for strata schemes. With more Australians than ever living in strata communities, raising professional standards across the sector promises long-term economic benefits and improved urban liveability.

At SCA, our advocacy for national reform is driven by the belief that professional, accountable, and ethical strata management is essential for Australia’s evolving urban landscape. With strata communities growing rapidly in both size and complexity, it has never been more critical to establish clear, consistent professional standards.

SCA remains dedicated to driving these necessary reforms forward. Together, we can achieve a higher standard of strata management, creating stronger communities, safeguarding investments, and delivering lasting positive outcomes for millions of Australians.