The NSW Government is extending public consultation on the statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and Strata Schemes Development Act 2015. The closing date for submissions has been extended by a month to 7 April 2021. The review has been extended to provide more time for stakeholders to have their say about the strata laws.

In addition, a third survey has been added about the keeping of animals in strata. The additional survey is in response to a requirement introduced by the Strata Schemes Management Amendment (Sustainability Infrastructure) Act 2021, assented to on 24 February 2021. The new provision requires the Minister to review the strata management laws as they relate to the keeping of animals in strata and to table a report in both Houses of Parliament by August 2021.

The Act also changes the law in relation to animals in strata. From later this year:

  • A by-law, or an owner’s corporation’s decision under a by-law, has no force or effect if it unreasonably prohibits the keeping of an animal on a lot.
  • Keeping an animal on a lot is reasonable unless it interferes with another occupant’s use or enjoyment of their lot, or the common property regulations may be developed outlining the circumstances where the keeping of an animal interferes with another occupant’s use or enjoyment of their lot, or the common property.

Responses to the pets survey, in addition to responses related to pets provided as part of the broader review of the strata laws, will assist in the development of the regulations.

The additional survey is hosted on the NSW Government’s Have Your Say website.

Further information can be found on the Have Your Say website or by emailing stratareview@customerservice.nsw.gov.au.