Country guide · Australia
Body corporate and strata ownership in Australia
Levies, sinking funds, bylaws and managers – what unit owners should check before buying.
Updated: 04/10/2026
In brief
- Levies fund insurance, upkeep and the sinking or capital works fund
- A weak fund leads to special levies later
- Bylaws can restrict pets, rentals and renovations
- The manager acts on instructions of the owners corporation
What the fees cover
Body corporate or owners corporation levies pay building insurance, cleaning, gardening, maintenance and contributions to the sinking or capital works fund.
Documents to review
Ask for the minutes, the budget, the sinking fund forecast, the current insurance schedule and any engineering or defect report before removing conditions.
Bylaws
Bylaws or rules cover pets, noise, parking, alterations and letting. Existing breaches by other owners can affect the building's costs and your use of the lot.
Choosing a manager
Strata and body corporate managers are appointed by the owners corporation. Compare response times, reporting, maintenance records and how disputes and levies are handled.
Official sources and further reading
National starting points only. State, provincial and territorial rules may add further requirements.
Professionals in Australia
Documented profiles of agents, developers, managers, investors and architects, listed in a neutral order.
More guides for Australia
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General information, not legal, tax or financial advice.