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In addition……..here’s the relevant section of the NSW Strata Schemes Management Act (1996) that speaks to voting rights, including my emphasis (bold):
Schedule 2, Cl 10(8)
Voting rights may not be exercised if contributions not paid.
A vote at a general meeting (other than a vote on a motion requiring a unanimous resolution) by an owner of a lot or a person with a priority vote in respect of the lot does not count unless payment has been made before the meeting of all contributions levied on the owner, and any other amounts recoverable from the owner, in relation to the lot that are owing at the date of the notice for the meeting.
It all depends on an interpretation of often poorly worded legislation, but unlike Scotty, mine is that as the alleged damage was to the common property and you’re an owner, non-payment of the O/C’s invoice would indeed preclude you from voting at a General Meeting, except for those Motions that require a unanimous resolution.
I’d also suggest that you check for any relevant Special By-Laws that your Plan my have registered.
Whether or not my interpretation is correct, it sounds to me like you’re on firm ground with regard to proving your “innocence”, and your next step should be to quickly advise the Secretary of your Executive Committee (E/C) and your Strata Manager that you again wish to discuss the matter in an effort to avoid the involvement of the CTTT.
Try to avoid the CTTT that many posts describe a the proverbial “chocolate wheel” in terms of the decisions made, but if your E/C and/or Strata Manager doesn’t respond positively or at all within a timeframe that’s acceptable to you (say 7 days), then you need to seek assistance with more formal mediation by completing and lodging THIS form, and of course by taking all relevant evidence to support your claims.