Strata peace and harmony start with respect

Julie McLean, President of the Victorian branch of Strata Community Australia,  addresses the problem of bullying in strata schemes – and what we can do when verbal push comes to emotional shove.

Living in a strata community can be a fulfilling experience, but it also comes with its challenges. As a melting pot of diverse individuals, tensions and conflicts are inevitable.

However, creating a harmonious living environment is not impossible, and it is a collective responsibility of everyone involved.

Recently, I met a lot owner in a block of four, who was being bullied by another lot owner to the extent that she felt she had to sell her home to escape.

Her story is not unique, and it underscores the need for all strata owners and residents to work together to prevent such situations from happening.

Respect is the cornerstone of harmonious living. Being kind and courteous to others is a universal concept that we should all embrace.

Strata managers also have a role to play in promoting respectful conversations, especially during meetings. Professional managers can provide helpful tips for managing difficult people, and encourage peaceful conflict resolution.

The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened tensions and frustrations, leading to a rise in disrespectful behaviour towards service personnel. To address this, the Strata Community Association (SCA) has launched the Respect Pledge.

This initiative encourages leadership behaviours that foster respect, harmony, and a willingness to come together as a community. By taking the pledge, strata committees demonstrate their commitment to creating a respectful and harmonious living environment.

At the next annual general meeting, strata members can also take the pledge and show their support for this cause. https://inside.strata.community/respect-pledge-creating-harmony-in-strata/

Community events are an excellent way to bring strata members together and foster new relationships. Planning such events can be challenging, but there are creative ways to overcome legislative funding restrictions. For instance, statutory functions such as fire drills, landscape inspections, and weeding can be turned into fun and engaging activities by adding elements like a best-dips competition or cooking tips and shared plates.

Lane Cove Council’s “Meet Your Neighbours” toolkit is an excellent resource for more ideas on how to plan community events. https://www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/Community/LoveWhereYouLive/Pages/default.aspx

Finally, strata members can start a newsletter to share experiences and stories. It’s a great way to spread positivity and create a sense of community. Taking photos and sharing them in the newsletter can also help to promote a sense of belonging and unity.

Creating harmony in strata is everyone’s responsibility. By embracing respect, participating in the Respect Pledge, planning community events, and sharing experiences, strata members can build a harmonious living environment that is conducive to everyone’s well-being.

I will be tabling the Respect Pledge at the next meeting of the block of four to try to repair the broken relationship between the strata residents.