Strata Properties in Australia Reach $1.4 Trillion in Value

1

The report also points out that 4.2 million Australians, about 15% of the national population, reside in strata-titled properties. This marks an increase of 200,000 residents since 2022. Strata living is particularly significant in urban locales, where it has become an integral part of the lifestyle for many.

The composition of strata properties is varied, with half of all buildings containing fewer than 20 lots. In contrast, larger complexes with a minimum of 100 lots accommodate 21% of strata residents. The demographic distribution shows that nearly half of the apartment inhabitants are aged between 20 and 39, and a similar proportion were born overseas, underscoring the diversity within these communities.

As considerable portions of Australia's urban population opt for strata living, the need for sustainable management and upgrades of older buildings becomes apparent. Nearly half of these structures are over 25 years old, prompting calls for enhanced maintenance, quality assurance, and regulatory measures. With strata developments serving as a 'way of life for millions,' ensuring their long-term viability is now more crucial than ever.

The Strata Community Association, in collaboration with the University of NSW City Futures Research Centre, underscores the necessity for concerted efforts among government, industry players, and stakeholders to uphold the quality and standards of strata properties. Proactive solutions are needed to address the challenges of older buildings and the expectations of a diverse population increasingly choosing strata living for its convenience and communal benefits.

The focus is now on implementing strong regulatory frameworks and advocating for improvements in building quality and insurance protections. The Strata Community Association calls for unified action to shape the future of strata living in Australia. This entails a strategic approach involving policy adjustments and innovations in building management practices to cater to the evolving needs of the strata sector.

As the majority of privately-owned apartments and certain townhouses and houses in planned estates are now strata-titled, the role of strata communities is set to expand further. Future developments may include legislative updates, investment in infrastructure improvements, and educational initiatives to guide property owners and managers in fostering sustainable and thriving communities.

Published:Tuesday, 8th Apr 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Climate Change Threatens Australian Suburbs with Unaffordable Insurance 17 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori More than 4% of Australian properties are currently facing heightened risks from natural hazards exacerbated by climate change, rendering insurance coverage often unaffordable or unavailable, according to recent findings by Climate Valuation. An analysis of over 15 million properties across 15,000 suburbs also highlights that an additional 10% are at moderate risk from disasters such as floods, bushfires, tropical cyclones, coastal inundation, and extreme winds. - read more

Insurer Rejects Claim Over Diesel Fluid Mix-Up 16 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori A contentious insurance claim has ended unfavourably for a motor policyholder after her husband mistakenly poured diesel exhaust fluid into her car's fuel tank. Although the policyholder initially received assurances from a Suncorp representative that the use of AdBlue fluid wouldn't be considered improper fuelling – supposedly an excluded scenario under her policy – the claim was later denied. This decision has sparked debate around policy definitions and customer service communication. - read more

ASIC Takes Hollard Insurance to Court Over Significant Claim Handling Issues 14 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has initiated legal proceedings in the Federal Court against Hollard Insurance, alleging a breach of the duty of utmost good faith. This action is in response to what ASIC describes as Hollard's 'egregious' handling of a home and contents insurance claim filed by a couple from regional Victoria. - read more

Suncorp to Slash Jobs and Offshore Work in Motor Claims 11 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori Suncorp, a leading Australian insurer, has announced plans to reduce its workforce by cutting 30 of the 70 positions within its motor claims assessing coordinator team, with an intention to offshore some of these functions. This decision has prompted a response from the Finance Sector Union (FSU), which is currently gathering feedback from its members and intends to challenge the proposed changes. - read more

AFCA Ruling: Trucking Firm's Claim Invalid Due to Misrepresentation 10 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori A recent decision by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has highlighted the importance of accurate disclosure in insurance applications. A trucking company's claim under an NTI commercial motor vehicle policy was denied after discrepancies were found in the company's insurance history and operational radius claims. - read more

Gow-Gates Secures Two-Year Partnership Extension with Football NSW 10 Apr 2025: Paige Estritori Gow-Gates has successfully renewed its role as the official insurance broker for Football NSW, set to continue for an additional two years. The decision was made following an extensive tender process conducted by the soccer organization last year. - read more