Apartment Living Forum exposes strata blind spots in government

On September 16, local State MP for Melbourne Ellen Sandell convened a public forum at RMIT’s Storey Hall on the theme of apartment living. 

Also in attendance was Tim Read (State MP for Brunswick), and Gabrielle de Vietri (State MP for Richmond), along with several council representatives.

Notably absent, however, were representatives from the City of Melbourne – a disappointment for many, given the city’s central role in apartment planning and governance.

The evening’s central theme was clear: while apartment living is on the rise, government understanding and support for residential strata has not kept pace.

In my presentation, I spoke about the “biggest and most pervasive challenge” faced by owners’ corporations (OCs): a lack of understanding from government and service providers.

Strata is a unique housing model, governed by its own complex rules and obligations. Yet, decision-makers often treat it as akin to standalone housing, creating unnecessary burdens for residents.

For example, OCs are routinely excluded from grant programs because they are not recognised as eligible entities. In one case, a council required an OC to submit its “constitution” to apply for a grant – something OCs simply do not have.

Residents also face inflated costs, hidden commissions, and requirements that no private homeowner would tolerate. A striking example is arrears management, where neighbours are forced into the role of debt collectors if fellow lot owners fall behind on fees.

Adding to the difficulty, there is no tailored support, no training, and inadequate systems designed for the strata sector. As discussed in the forum, “Strata living is a distinct sector – it has significantly different dynamics than stand-alone housing, and it needs to be addressed as such.”

The event also featured three other apartment residents who shared deeply personal stories about the ongoing challenges they face, ranging from financial stress to safety concerns. Their experiences underscored the urgent need for reform.

With the Owners’ Corporation Act review currently under way, the Owners Corporation Network (OCN) has identified three key priorities: establishing an independent OC Commissioner, creating a strata hub for data and transparency, and delivering sector-wide training.

If Melbourne is to embrace apartment living as part of its future, government must recognise strata for what it is – a distinct and growing form of housing – and provide the frameworks and support it deserves. •