I contacted Consumer Affairs Victoria. They think the issue should go to VCAT.
They agree with KP that it’s the Committee and not the SM that should be making the decisions on this for the OC.
CAV could not see where in the OC Act the matter was specifically covered. From my limited research it seems that VCAT has noted that it is the Subdivisions Act 1988 that guarantees an owner always has access to their lots – there is an implied right of way in section 12(2) which I see is even specifically mentioned on the strata plan. The OC Act can’t change or override the subdivisions Act.
CAV also commented that there might be registered OC Rules that specifically cover the matter. But when I last checked in 2012 there were no registered OC Rules – only the Model Rules.
CAV also noted that, under consumer law in Victoria, swipes must be “fit for purpose” – so they might be expected to last for very many years, similar to a metal key (and not just until any warranty expires). So the owner of the faulty swipe could take this matter up with the swipe manufacturer. As I did not purchase the swipe, that’s something I can’t do.