A coalition of consumer groups has urged the NSW government to increase funding for the Office of the Strata and Property Services Commissioner.

The government last year widened the role of property services commissioner John Minns to include strata, increasing oversight in the sector.

“Despite the visionary establishment of the Strata and Property Services Commissioner’s Office, and the commendable efforts of John Minns since his appointment, the office is severely under-resourced,” the groups say. “With only 16 inspectors managing a vast property portfolio, significant issues such as lengthy delays in resolving serious safety investigations are undermining both the safety of residents and their rights.”

The call for increased funding is supported by the Australian College of Strata Lawyers, Australian Consumers Insurance Lobby, Owners Corporation Network of Australia, Retirement Village Residents Association and Strata Community Association.

The strata sector houses 35% of NSW residents, with projections the figure could increase to 50% by 2040.

“Adequate funding will ensure the office can fulfill its role effectively, safeguarding the rights of strata residents and driving necessary reforms,” the groups say.

NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey will deliver the state budget for next financial year on June 18.

A Department of Customer Service statement of expectations following Mr Minns’ appointment says risks to strata owners and residents are growing as “schemes increase in complexity, costs continue to escalate, governance challenges emerge, and pressures on scheme insurability and building integrity increase”.

Mr Minns will address attendees at an Insurance News half-day seminar on May 30 that will examine trends and challenges in the strata sector. Find out more here.

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