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Does this mean that in Victoria if I fix my own windows I do not need to pay to fix anyone else’s windows?
In Victoria, there is what’s generally called “The benefit principle”. It can apply to an OC’s funding of common property works. But only if those works are not part of an annual budget or are to be paid for by a special levy. The OC itself must still carry out the works.
The benefit principle means lots that benefit more pay more. So the usual formula of using a lot’s units of liability is not used.
If for example, an OC raised a special levy to repair all windows but your lot did not need that repair, the OC could apply the benefit principle and not include you in the special levy.
How to apply the benefit principle can sometimes be complicated. It’s a decision of either the committee or the OC itself. But if a lot owner thinks it should be applied or that was incorrectly applied, they can challenge the OC’s decision at VCAT.