Clockwise – my own experience is similar to yours and I believe the practice you describe is common practice – unfortunately.
A good reason not buy an apartment in a scheme governed by BMC.
I will resist the temptation to get on my soapbox about BMC, but please take JT advice and spend the time (money?) to review existing services and get yourself prepared to challenge the next appointment for BMC manager, SM etc.
A starting point would be to get very acquainted with your SMS (ask SM for a copy) and the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015 – https://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/~/view/act/2015/51/full
I was once told by an eminent strata lawyer that BMC are a developer favourite because they control the ‘stupid and ignorant’ residential owners.