The Strata Community Association has made disclosure and transparency a key plank of its campaign to increase federal policymakers’ awareness of sector priorities.

“The upcoming election is a critical opportunity for all political parties to recognise and support the millions of Australians who live and work in strata,” national president Joshua Baldwin said.

“SCA is committed to making strata a priority on the national agenda.”

The group is seeking federal support for the introduction of state strata commissioners and increased transparency on commissions and remuneration.

CEO Alisha Fisher told insuranceNEWS.com.au: “We are committed to providing consistent guidance to regulators across the nation to ensure disclosure and transparency on commissions and remuneration align with federally regulated insurance products and support the best outcomes for consumers.”

Ms Fisher says the group wants consistent nationwide application of its best practice insurance disclosure guidelines, which should be mandated for all practising strata managers and not just SCA members. The guidelines include disclosure of all conflicts of interest and clearly listing dollar values received by strata managers and parties to transactions.

“SCA is committed to ensuring regulators and policymakers understand the consequences of changes to remuneration structures, protecting consumers from being worse off,” she said.

“It’s essential that any changes to remuneration structures, if they are investigated or applied, are well considered, evidence-based, allow for long lead times in implementation, and account for industry sustainability and practical application.”  

The group is also pressing for a national portal to centralise information, nationwide minimum education standards for strata professionals, and expanded vocational education and training funding.

Priorities for sustainable and affordable strata living include “robust governance” on building defects and safety materials, strengthening the promotion of environmentally responsible practices and implementing the national electric vehicle strategy.

SCA says the campaign is focused on educating policymakers, securing important policy mandates, and raising awareness of challenges and the reforms strata communities demand.