Changes to the UTMA and UTA commencing 1 November 2020
OCN ACT had input into the reforms as part of a Consultative Group that included Strata Community Australia, the Law Society and Master Builders among others.
The reforms will commence on 1 November 2020. Some provisions have a transition time to allow owners to get ready.
A good snapshot of the changes and how they can affect you is at the Access Canberra Build Buy or Renovate website:
This website will continue to be updated with further information in the lead up to the commencement of the reforms.
One change that is not mentioned on that website is that minutes from all OC and EC meeting must be given to all owners within 14 days of the meeting. So the days of getting the minutes from the last AGM with the papers for the next one are definitely over. Hopefully, assuming they are read, this change will promote transparency and lead to a more informed strata community.
We also draw your attention to the termination of all existing special privilege rights over common property with effect from 1 July 2021. We strongly recommend if you are either an impacted owner or an executive committee that needs to address special privileges and their termination by virtue of the transitional provisions, that you seek advice.
If you have any questions, please use the Contact Us tab or you can contact the Project Team at stratareform@act.gov.au or phone Access Canberra on 13 22 81.