Joining your strata scheme’s Strata Committee is one of the most effective ways to influence how your building is run. Whether you’re passionate about improving maintenance, enhancing communication, or simply making sure levies are spent wisely, committee membership gives you a direct voice in shaping your community’s future.

Far from being an administrative burden, it’s an opportunity to gain insight into strata management, connect with neighbours, and contribute to decisions that protect — and grow — your property’s value.

What the Law Says

The legal framework for Strata Committees is set out under the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 (NSW). According to the NSW Department of Fair Trading, the Strata Committee is responsible for the day-to-day management of the scheme on behalf of the Owners Corporation — handling everything from repairs and by-law compliance to communication with the strata manager.

Each year at the Annual General Meeting (AGM), the Owners Corporation elects the new committee. The key requirements are:

• The Owners Corporation determines the number of committee members at each AGM.
• Committees can have between 1 and 9 members.
• In a two-lot scheme, both owners must be members.
• In large schemes (more than 100 lots), the committee must have at least three members.

Once elected, the committee typically appoints office bearers — such as the Chairperson, Secretary, and Treasurer — who oversee specific responsibilities within the group.

How Often Do Committees Meet?

Interestingly, there’s no legal requirement for how often a Strata Committee must meet. The frequency depends on the size and activity of your scheme. Smaller buildings may meet a few times a year, while larger complexes often meet monthly or quarterly. Meetings can take place in person, online, or even via written correspondence.

If you’re considering joining, ask a current committee member how often they meet and what’s typically on the agenda. This will help you understand the time commitment before nominating yourself.

Getting Started: How to Nominate Yourself

If you’re ready to take part, the process is straightforward. Nominations are made at your scheme’s Annual General Meeting. You can nominate yourself, or another owner can nominate you (with your consent). Both owner-occupiers and investor owners are eligible, provided they are financial — meaning all levies are up to date.

Once nominations are received, members vote to elect the committee. In smaller schemes, nominees are often automatically appointed. In larger ones, a ballot may be held if there are more nominations than available positions.

Tip: Review your meeting notice before the AGM — it will usually include instructions on how to nominate, including deadlines for written submissions if you can’t attend in person.

Training for New Committee Members

Joining a committee for the first time can feel daunting, but the learning curve is manageable — especially with free resources available to help you. Strata Community Association (NSW) offers a free online training course designed for current and aspiring committee members.

The course covers essential topics including:

• Governance, ethics, and decision-making
• Roles and responsibilities under the Act
• Strata plan interpretation and meeting procedures
• Budgeting, levies, and financial reporting
• Communication and dispute resolution

It’s delivered via six self-paced online modules that you can complete at your convenience — perfect for busy professionals or residents new to strata living. Participants can revisit the material anytime, making it a handy reference throughout their term.

Who Can Take the Course?

While the training is primarily designed for committee members, anyone living or investing in a strata property can enrol. Even if you’re not ready to serve on the committee yet, understanding how strata governance works will help you engage more effectively as an owner or resident.

Those planning to join in future years can use the training as a way to build confidence and familiarity before nominating.

Why Joining the Committee Matters

Serving on your Strata Committee is more than a civic duty — it’s a way to actively protect your investment. You’ll gain visibility over the scheme’s finances, influence maintenance priorities, and help resolve issues before they escalate. It’s also a great opportunity to build stronger community relationships and ensure the scheme is being managed in everyone’s best interests.

Ultimately, effective committees lead to better-maintained buildings, higher property values, and more harmonious communities. Your participation can make that difference.

Final Word

Becoming a Strata Committee member isn’t just about attending meetings — it’s about being part of the decision-making process that shapes your building’s future. With free training, online support, and expert guidance from your strata manager, anyone can contribute meaningfully to their community’s success.