Old laws and lack of regs stifling Qld strata – Bos

Queensland’s outdated strata laws, poor professional standards among strata managers, rocketing insurance charges and lack of property rights for apartment owners are all holding back a viable solution to the state’s housing crisis, says one leading light in the industry.

And Strata Community Association (Qld) General Manager Laura Bos says the organisation’s StrataWeek, next week, is a pivotal opportunity to showcase strata’s potential while calling for urgent reform and investment in the sector.

Ms Bos says out-of-date strata laws are failing to support the sector’s growth, leaving many residents vulnerable. One of the most pressing concerns is building defects.

Research suggests that 85% of residential strata buildings have at least one defect, she says, calling for stronger consumer protections and better insurance options to shield owners from the burden of faulty construction.

She also pointed to an urgent need for regulation of strata management qualifications and licensing in the state.

No strata manager oversight

“Right now, anyone can call themselves a strata manager without formal education or ethical standards,” she said. “This lack of oversight weakens confidence in our industry. It’s time for professionalisation and regulation.”

Strata insurance reform is another major issue, she says, with rising premiums creating significant cost-of-living pressures.

“With insurance being compulsory for strata properties, these skyrocketing costs are unfairly impacting owners,” said Ms Bos. “We need action on taxation and mitigation funding from all levels of government.”

Ms Bos also called for greater community autonomy, arguing that strata owners deserve the same rights over their homes as those in detached housing.

“Outdated regulations restrict communities from making democratic decisions about how they live. Strata residents should not be hamstrung by excessive by-law restrictions.”

StrataWeek launched

Ms Bos’s statement came as Strata Community Association Queensland (SCAQ) launched StrataWeek, “a dedicated initiative to spotlight the growing importance of strata living in Queensland.”

The event runs from 24-30 March and culminates in the QStrata Expo and Conference, running from Wednesday to Friday at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

“Strata is growing at an extraordinary pace in Queensland, yet public understanding and government support haven’t kept up,” said Ms Bos.

“With the state facing a housing crisis, strata offers one of the most viable pathways for more Queenslanders to own their own homes. Given the government’s commitment to increasing housing supply, we’re urging them to fully embrace strata as part of the solution.”

Ms Bos highlighted strata’s broader benefits, including its potential to reduce urban sprawl, ease congestion, and support environmental sustainability.

“Strata developments encourage higher-density living, which means fewer cars on the road, less land clearing, and stronger community connections—leading to real environmental and mental health benefits. A thriving strata sector is a win for homeowners, a win for the government, and a win for the planet.”

Despite the many challenges, Ms Bos said the primary goal of StrataWeek is to educate and inspire more people to engage with the sector.

“We want to demystify strata—helping people understand its benefits and complexities while building a stronger case for reform. That’s why we’re excited to welcome Attorney-General Deb Frecklington to open the QStrata Conference this week.”

“We encourage policymakers, property professionals, and everyday Queenslanders to take part, learn more, and be part of shaping a better future for strata communities.”