Insights

• A strong Council of Owners is essential for informed, effective decision-making.
• Collaboration between the Council and strata managers creates smoother operations and better outcomes.
• Engaged councils help build communities that are well-maintained, transparent, and harmonious.

Why a Council of Owners Matters

Every successful strata complex has one thing in common: a proactive and engaged Council of Owners. They’re the backbone of good decision making, ensuring the property is cared for, the community thrives, and every owner has a voice.

So, what exactly does a Council of Owners do?

But what exactly does a Council of Owners do?

The Role of the Council

Put simply, the Council represents all lot owners. They make day-to-day decisions on behalf of the strata company, oversee budgets, maintenance, and by-laws compliance, and act as the link between owners, residents, and the strata manager.

The size of the Council depends on the number of lots, but their purpose is always the same: to help the property run smoothly and protect everyone’s investment.

Bringing Structure and Confidence to Strata Living

A well-functioning Council brings structure and transparency to community living. It helps keep the property in good order, ensures funds are managed responsibly, and allows owners to feel confident that issues are being addressed promptly and fairly. It also encourages collaboration between neighbours, which often leads to a stronger, more harmonious community.

Partnering With Realmark Strata

At Realmark Strata, we work closely with Councils of Owners to make their role as effective and stress free as possible. Our team provides guidance on governance, financial management, and compliance, while also handling the day-to-day administration that keeps things running efficiently.

“An engaged Council of Owners is essential to the success of any strata community,” said Maizie Churstain, Head of Strata at Realmark Strata. “Our role is to support Councils with the knowledge, structure, and confidence they need to make informed decisions. When everyone understands their responsibilities and works together, you see communities that are not only better managed but genuinely enjoy where they live.”

How We Support Councils

From preparing agendas and minutes to coordinating maintenance, managing budgets, and providing legislative advice, we make sure your Council has the right information to make sound decisions. We also facilitate communication between the Council, owners, and service providers so everyone stays informed and aligned.

Stronger Communities Through Partnership

The best outcomes happen when the Council and strata managers work in partnership. When you bring your local knowledge and community insight together with our expertise and systems, your property benefits from smarter planning, smoother operations, and a more engaged community overall.

Want to Strengthen Your Council of Owners?

A thriving strata community relies on a Council of Owners that is informed, collaborative, and engaged. Whether your Council is newly formed or well established, there are simple steps you can take to improve communication, streamline decision-making, and foster stronger relationships within your community. Here are some practical tips to help your Council operate more effectively and confidently.

Tips to Strengthen Your Council of Owners

• Encourage clear communication: Share regular updates, distribute agendas and minutes promptly, and use digital tools to keep owners connected.
• Define roles and responsibilities: Assign positions such as Chairperson, Treasurer, and Secretary, and outline expectations for each role to avoid confusion.
• Promote collaboration: Create an environment where all Council members can contribute ideas respectfully and constructively.
• Leverage professional expertise: Rely on your strata manager for guidance on compliance, maintenance, financials, and complex issues.
• Prioritise ongoing education: Attend training sessions, workshops, and webinars to stay informed about strata regulations and best practices.
• Build transparency: Communicate major decisions and financial updates openly to build trust with all owners.

Plan proactively: Keep your maintenance schedule and budgets updated to reduce surprises and ensure long-term sustainability.

Focus on community wellbeing: Encourage neighbourly behaviour, support community initiatives, and resolve issues promptly to maintain harmony.

If you’re part of a strata complex and want to know more about how your Council of Owners can operate more effectively, reach out to the Realmark Strata team. We’re here to help your community get the best out of its shared spaces, budgets, and relationships.