Strata schemes are buildings or a collection of buildings, such as apartments or townhouses, where individuals own a portion known as a ‘lot’.  Common property ownership is shared between lot owners, such as driveways, foyers and gardens. 

Community schemes are a system of property ownership of lots or units which are subdivided into strata schemes or other smaller community or neighbourhood schemes.  Community schemes allow for multiple dwellings on one piece of land such as rural subdivisions or gated communities.  The common property forms a separate lot with its own lot number. 

Applications can be made by lot owners, owners corporations and occupiers concerning strata, community and neighbourhood scheme disputes.  Parties must generally attempt mediation before lodging an application.  Find out more about mediation.

Matters are either dealt with by an Adjudicator on the papers or by a Tribunal Member at a hearing.

Adjudicator orders

To apply for Adjudicator's orders:

• Download a Strata and community schemes application for Adjudicator orders (PDF size: 270kb)
• Download a Strata and community schemes application for Interim Orders (PDF size: 226kb)
• Collect an application from any CTTT Registry or Fair Trading Centre.

You can expect the matter to be finalised within 3 months after lodging your application with the CTTT. 

Learn about the adjudication process.

Tribunal orders

To apply for Tribunal orders:

• Download a Strata and community schemes application for Tribunal orders (PDF size: 387kb)
• Collect an application form from any CTTT Registry or Fair Trading Centre.

You can expect a first hearing within 8 weeks after lodging your application with the CTTT. 

Learn about the hearing and appeals process.

Top of page

Common strata and community schemes disputes are:

• Excessive noise
• Exclusive use by-laws
• Damage to common property
• Appointment of a strata manager
• Keeping pets
• Meetings and resolutions.

Top of page

Community Land Management Act 1989
Strata Schemes Management Act 1996

Top of page