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It’s a David and Goliath story; one woman’s battle against her inner-city apartment’s bylaws to stop her pet dog ‘Angus’ getting evicted turned into a five-year battle and resulted in a successful ruling at the NSW Court of Appeal.
Last month, Sydney resident Jo Cooper rejoiced when her luxury apartment building was forced to overturn it’s no-pets bylaw after the NSW Court ruled that a blanket ban was “harsh, unconscionable or oppressive”, and that the bylaw also restricted the lawful use of each lot, as long as it didn’t infringe on other residents. While this decision isn’t a green light for all apartment residents to run out and purchase a new animal companion, it does mean that if they live in a building with a blanket ban on pets, they can now go to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) to have the bylaw overturned.
The ruling is significant not only for the dog lovers of NSW but for the gatekeepers of residential apartments - our strata managers - as it sets a precedent for future changes to bylaws that they will have to keep on top of. In a recent Financial Review articleSharon Levy, a partner at Bartier Perry Lawyers who represented Cooper in her case, said that this ruling could cause significant challenges to what bylaws owners’ corporations can impose on apartment owners in the future. It also highlights the ever-changing nature of legislation within the property industry.
While the pro-pet breakthrough has been well publicised in mainstream media, this is only one of the many changes to strata legislation that has occurred over the last month. In the ACT alone, changes to the Unit Titles (Management) Act (2011)came into effect on Sunday, November 1 which in addition to adopting a pet-friendly rule, will allow strata committees to split budgets between commercial and residential properties, allow improvements that have environmental benefits and ensure that minutes of meetings to owners are provided within 14 days. Meanwhile, in NSW the state government are preparing to enforce a new Code of Conduct for hosts, guests, letting agents and online booking platforms in the short-term rental accommodation industry from December 18, 2020. Similar changes in laws and the introduction of new laws occur on a regular basis and can vary depending on the state.
Within facilities and strata management, the key duties revolve around ensuring a built environment (both residential and commercial) are insured, compliant with local laws, being maintained and that the properties’ administration is up-to-date and accurate. This can’t be achieved effectively without keeping a ‘finger on the pulse’ in regard to the laws, trends and forecasts that impact the property sector. Changes might be economic, financial, or cultural but if they can potentially impact the residents or civilians associated with a building, it becomes the strata manager’s responsibility to know and provide adequate advice on these changes.
This isn’t an easy feat and for all involved that work within the strata industry, keeping abreast of changes to legislation requires guidance from Australia’s key governing bodies, which are responsible for supporting the professionals and organisations involved in the operational management of Australia’s built environments. Some of these include The Facilities Management Association (FMA) which has branches throughout Australia, the Strata Community Association and the Government consumer regulators, which all have branches throughout the Australian states.
Design & Build spoke with the SCA NSW Strata Community Manager of the Year 2020, Jessica Kaye who Design & Build have had the pleasure of placing in her current role. Jess shared her thoughts and advice on keeping up with the latest regulations, adapting bylaws when situations change and working with Australia’s key governing bodies to ensure they are providing relevant and effective advice to their stakeholders:
“Compliance is at the crux of what we do and one of our core obligations to our clients. In what has been an incredibly challenging year, our communities are in desperate need for clear, practical and empathetic guidance. We are fortunate to work in an industry with an active industry body and many excellent thought leaders who provide timely and constructive advice when key legislation/regulatory changes occur.
The key to cementing our position as trusted advisors to stakeholders and providing peace of mind to our clients is to leverage off the experience of others, to be communicative, open minded and to tap into the multiple resources provided industry wide. This is incredibly important given the nature of our constantly evolving industry.
My advice in staying up to date with legislation? Don’t hesitate to sign up for that newsletter, or subscribe to that mailing list. Participate in the conversation, be active in your teams, on your platforms, in your industry and community. In ensuring and promoting active participation and engagement, we will only be able to better our communities and ensure better compliance.”
Certainly, in today’s current climate with the pandemic having so many far-reaching effects on the Australian economy, keeping up to date with legislation and checking in with the state and national governing bodies has never been so important and will be crucial for strata managers heading into 2021.
For strata managers seeking new opportunities, wanting further jobseeker advice or wishing to gain a better understanding on any of the information listed above, reach out to Aaron for a confidential chat:
Email: aaron@designandbuild.com.au
Phone: 0410 457 057
Linkedin: Aaron Petrilli
The Company An exciting opportunity exists for an experienced Property Manager to join a casual yet fast paced environment! The role will entail managing a portfolio of student accommodation within the CBD. You are not required to travel as all your properties will be in the same building. No more rental references, great property management system to make life easier! The Role Duties Include: Managing a portfolio of student apartments in one building Hold open for inspections & private viewings Rent arrears Organising community events Leasing new & existing properties Liaising with tenants/landlords Organising repairs & maintenance Providing assistance to the Senior Property Management team Your Profile We are looking for someone with 2+ years experience in residential property management - OR - hotel property management. You will hold your Real Estate license OR an agents representative certificate. Key Selection: Real Estate Licence OR Certificate of registration 2 + years on residential or hotel property management Experience dealing with Owners Corporation Customer Service orientated Experience with NCAT Apply today! If you are qualified and fit the key selection criteria please "apply" below to be considered for this exciting opportunity or for a confidential discussion please call Aaron Petrilli (02) 9376 8200
As a result of continued growth an opportunity exists for an experienced strata professional to lead this highly successful business. This role participates in the strategic management of the business and is responsible for leading and mentoring the team to ensure the delivery of exceptional service. As the successful Team Leader you will be responsible for: Managing the delivery of Key Performance Indicators for the Strata Services Team as set and changed over time Performance management of all Strata Services team members Risk management of the portfolio and oversight for the improvement of NPS results across strata management deliverables Responsible for the resolution of customer escalations as a result of strata management or financial management deficiencies Capture of schedule B undertakings Business process mapping and re-engineering of financial and strata management support solutions to ensure best practice and time efficient service delivery To be successful in this role as Team Leader: Demonstrated experience managing a high performing team Sound understanding of financial management, audit & taxation requirements Business process re-engineering experience Ideally tertiary qualifications in Business Management or Finance Class 1 license preferred Positive contributor and leader in company culture and team engagement Identifying opportunities for business improvement across all areas of the business Responsible for the day-to-day operation and overall management of the common property for a portfolio of schemes during periods of annual leave, position vacancies or overflow Project management and delivery of company strategic objectives and goals relating to the delivery of strata services to internal and external stakeholders Build and maintain business relationships with stakeholders that will enhance the reputation of the organisation Contribute to new business opportunities in conjunction with the Managing Director Please phone Aaron Petrilli directly on (02) 9376 8200 for a confidential discussion about this or any other opportunities within strata or real estate. Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designandbuildrecruitment Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/design.build.recruit/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-&-build-recruitment/ Check us out on Google: https://bit.ly/2whfDMO
With a strong presence and multiple branches across NSW you will be based in the Sydney head office. They have a strong existing market presence and operate in both the residential and commercial sectors. This presents a rewarding opportunity for an experienced Strata or property professional looking to make a lateral move into a PA position and support the Director of this powerhouse of a business As the Executive Assistant you will be responsible for: Diary management and arranging appointments, booking meeting rooms etc. Coordinating travel and itineraries Taking minutes & assisting with presentations Assisting the director with key clients Administrations support, compliance and some coordination of repairs and maintenance To be considered for the position of Personal Assistant you will require: Great initiative, problem solving and attention to detail In innate ability to manage a myriad of tasks at any one time A high level of accuracy and excellent written and verbal communication skills Used to working to deadlines in a fast paced environment Experience in a similar role within property, facilities, strata or legal is highly regarded If you feel your experience matches the person specification, please contact Aaron Petrilli on 02 9376 8200 or click apply. Please note only short listed candidates will be contacted and your application will be treated as strictly confidential.
Our client is a highly reputable boutique eastern suburbs agency who have an outstanding reputation for operating with a high level of integrity and providing their clients with a high level of service. About the role: Ensure proper control & maintenance of all aspects of portfolio in accordance with statutory requirements Provide high quality service to Owners Corporations & Strata Committee Building and maintaining excellent relationships with clients Making management decisions relating to the portfolio Prepare meeting agendas, notices & minutes Chair meetings Prompt follow up & resolution of inquiries & complaints Initiate & maintain insurance claims & quotations Coordinate & assess repairs, maintenance & replacement of property To be successful in this role you will have: Previous experience managing a diverse portfolio Excellent time management skills A strong attention to detail and strong time management skills Ability to work well autonomously as well as within a team Friendly, personable and approachable personality Please phone Aaron Petrilli directly on (02) 9376 8200 for a confidential discussion about this or any other opportunities within strata. Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designandbuildrecruitment Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/design.build.recruit/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-&-build-recruitment/ Check us out on Google: https://bit.ly/2whfDMO
My client is boutique, high performing business based on the city fringe. They are now looking for an experienced Strata Assistant to join their growing team on the city fringe. As the new Strata Assistant you will be responsible for; Supporting the Director of the business with a small portfolio Shared point of contact for all Executive Committees, Owners and Tenants Liaising with Owners Corporation as required Arrange quotations and repairs and maintenance for works required Prepare agendas and minutes for meeting Risk & Insurance (annual fire safety & insurance checks and quotations) To be considered for the position of Strata Assistant you must have the following; Be capable of working Independently Assist the Director and other Senior staff where required Be willing to learn and Progress their Career with the Business Professional Written and Verbal Communication Skills Excellent Customer Service and Time Management Skills For any questions relating to this role or other opportunities with D&B and our clients please contact Aaron Petrilli on (02)9376 8200 or click apply. Your application will be treated as strictly confidential. Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designandbuildrecruitment Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/design.build.recruit/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-&-build-recruitment/ Check us out on Google: https://bit.ly/2whfDMO
Looking for an experienced Strata Assistant to join a dynamic team with diverse portfolio's and highly respected and experienced managers to learn from. You will be assisting just one manager with a manageable portfolio of 950 lots. You will have excellent support on board and wealth of knowledge to pull from within the team. Working with down to earth but hard working team. As the new Strata Assistant you will be responsible for: Point of contact for all Executive Committees, Owners and Tenants Liaising with Owners Corporation as required Arrange quotations and repairs and maintenance for works required Prepare agendas and minutes for meeting Risk & Insurance (annual fire safety & insurance checks and quotations) Issuing Keys to contractors, owners & tenants To be considered for the position of Strata Assistant you must have the following; Be capable of working independently Take directions from Senior Staff Be willing to learn and Progress their Career with the Business Professional Written and Verbal Communication Skills Excellent Customer Service and Time Management Skills For any questions relating to this role or other opportunities with D&B and our clients please contact Aaron Petrilli on (02) 9376 8200 or click apply. Your application will be treated as strictly confidential. Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designandbuildrecruitment Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/design.build.recruit/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-&-build-recruitment/ Check us out on Google: https://bit.ly/2whfDMO
As a result of continued growth an opportunity exists for an experienced strata Manager to join this progressive and dynamic team. We are searching for somebody to oversee a diverse portfolio of mixed-use, residential and new developments. About the role as Strata Manager: Ensure proper control & maintenance of all aspects of portfolio in accordance with statutory requirements Provide high quality service to OC's Building and maintaining excellent relationships with clients Making management decisions relating to the portfolio Prepare meeting agendas, notices & minutes Chair meetings Prompt follow up & resolution of inquiries To be successful in this role you will have: Previous experience managing a diverse portfolio Excellent time management skills A strong attention to detail and strong time management skills Ability to work well autonomously as well as within a team Friendly, personable and approachable personality Please phone Aaron Petrilli directly on (02) 9376 8200 for a confidential discussion about this or any other opportunities within strata or real estate. Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designandbuildrecruitment Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/design.build.recruit/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-&-build-recruitment/ Check us out on Google: https://bit.ly/2whfDMO
As a result of continued growth an opportunity exists for an experienced strata Manager to join this progressive and dynamic team. We are searching for somebody to oversee a small high end portfolio whilst also overseeing a team of accomplished professionals in their field. This is a sensational opportunity to work for a market leader who are progressive, innovative and absolutely set the benchmark in professional excellence. About the opportunity of Senior Strata Manager: A model structured and geared towards true relationship management Building and maintaining excellent relationships with clients Dedicated assistants and ample support - no work orders Budgets prepared for you and no work orders to do! Chairing and attending all OC meetings Prompt follow up and resolution of inquiries To be successful in this role as Senior Strata Manager you will have: Prior experience managing BMC's and complex schemes Excellent time management skills Tertiary qualifications in law or finance highly regarded A strong attention to detail and strong time management skills Ability to work well autonomously as well as within the team Ability to connect and build rapport with a diverse demographic Thorough knowledge of legislation with strong written & verbal communication skills Please phone Aaron Petrilli directly on (02) 9376 8200 for a confidential discussion about this or any other opportunities within strata or real estate. Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designandbuildrecruitment Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/design.build.recruit/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-&-build-recruitment/ Check us out on Google: https://bit.ly/2whfDMO