Time to get serious about zero emissions
In her latest post to Flat Chat, Julie McLean, president of Strata Community Australia (Vic), explains the urgent need for strata to prepare for our zero emissions future. Australia’s nearly…
planning
Owners conned thanks to Qld law loopholes
Queensland strata owners and buyers are being conned by developers, rental agents and management rights operators, claims the state’s Unit Owners Association (UOAQ), and it’s all possible because blocks are…
Architect anger, developer delight at planning backflip
NSW architects have slammed the state government’s backflip on proposals to compel developers to include sustainable elements in new designs and steer clear of flood and bush-fire susceptible areas, labelling…
Podcast: Will data diving replace tenant checks?
A couple of weeks ago we received a press release from a company called Equifax who are a data analysis company that specialises in credit checks, among other things. Those…
Forum: Do seniors rules allow landlords too?
Does a unit built for seniors or people with disabilities have to be occupied by members of those groups or is it enough for it to be owned by one,…
Forum: Neighbour throws shade on plan to cut canes
What’s that thing they say about the squeaky wheel always getting the oil? In strata, it’s more likely to be the loudest voice that’s the only one heard. However, some…
Tax and planning boost for build-to-rent blocks
The NSW government is getting behind build-to-rent housing in a big way, announcing major changes to tax and planning policies to encourage developers to build apartment blocks that will be…
Flat Chat Wrap #38 – Mediation, revolution and crazy planning objections
This week the Flat Chat Wrap podcast is all about conflict and various forms of resolution … including revolution. First Sue Williams and I take a look at we take…
Opal: Roberts steps up while Kean sidesteps strata
If there was any further evidence required of Better Regulation Minister Matt Kean’s waning interest in strata owners, it comes this week as Minister for Planning and Housing (and former…
Roundup: How big a deal is the size of your unit?
Of all the things you might have to sacrifice to be able to afford an apartment to buy or rent, how far down the list would size rate? Less important…
Airbnb: ‘It’s about planning – not by-laws’
DR Cathy Sherry of the Law department of UNSW was quoted in the Privy Council findings. Ironically, she doesn’t think allowing by-laws to restrict holiday lets is not the answer.…
Cellar dwellers undermine strata laws
Just when we thought we had read everything, along come two owners who have illegally created cellars under their units. They have cut holes in their floors, removed soil and…