NSW strata reform clears Parliament after a three-year overhaul
The latest round of NSW strata reform has passed Parliament, according to a NSW Government release published on 16 October 2026. The Strata Schemes Legislation Amendment (Miscellaneous) Bill 2025 is the fourth strata package of the Minns Government and covers the 1.2 million people living in apartments and duplexes across the state.
Duplex owners can drop the committee paperwork
Under the NSW strata reform bill, two-lot schemes such as duplexes, which make up more than 30 per cent of strata schemes, will no longer need to form committees, hold meetings or submit annual reports to NSW Fair Trading.
Limits on key deposits, and a right to charge your electric car
There will be fair limits on when an owners corporation can charge residents a bond or fee. Bonds for access keys or swipe cards that are far higher than the replacement cost will no longer be allowed.
Owners also have the right to install electric vehicle charging on their own lot without fear of unreasonable objection from their strata committee.
More scrutiny for owners corporations and building managers
NSW Fair Trading will have increased powers to publish compliance action taken against owners corporations. The aim is to let prospective buyers see whether a building has repair or maintenance problems.
The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal will also be able to order the termination of a building management agreement if the manager breaches their duties, including by failing to reveal that they receive commissions.
What the earlier three rounds delivered
This round of NSW strata reform follows three earlier tranches. They required payment plans to be offered to owners in financial hardship before debt recovery action, and independent certification of initial levy estimates in new buildings. They also introduced itemised insurance quotes, made minor renovations easier, required a second quote for work over $30,000 and banned strata managing agents from taking insurance commissions when they do not help find the best deal.
Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said the Government has overhauled strata laws over the past three years to help build confidence in apartment living. The release does not give start dates for the new changes, so check with NSW Fair Trading before relying on them. Further NSW strata reform details are on the NSW Government’s strata law changes page.
Related: Smart Rental Bonds: NSW says over $5 million in bonds moved in a month
General information only, not legal advice. Check the official source before acting.
Source: NSW Government. Licence: CC BY 4.0.
