A Blueprint for Establishing a Strong and Thriving Strata Community

The best developers don’t just build structures; they create strong foundations for the communities in those structures to thrive long after their involvement ends. But creating these foundations doesn’t just happen by chance — it takes careful planning, a community-centric approach, and an excellent understanding of how people will use the spaces you build.

Having seen first-hand the results of investing early in strata communities, we have created a blueprint, backed by practical examples from successful developments.

Transparency and Communication

Clear, open, and easily accessible communication lays the foundation for a connected community. 

Owner/Occupant Manuals – Provide a straightforward guide to building operations such as move-ins, waste management, utility connections, standard renovation approvals, access and security and more. This gives building occupants a sense of comfort and control from day one. 

Notice Boards – Use digital, physical, or app-based notice boards to share essential updates. Another effective alternative is a notice board in the lifts to provide updates on important building information. 

Regular Meetings – Schedule and budget for routine committee meetings to ensure transparency in decision-making. Meeting minutes should be accessible, giving owners insight and confidence about how decisions are made and how their building is managed. 

Newsletters – Simple, regular updates keep occupants engaged. Topics can range from social events to building management (e.g. fire inspections, bulky waste collections). It does not need to be fancy—just informative.

Building Design for Community Engagement

Design choices can encourage interaction and foster a sense of belonging. 

Communal Spaces – Incorporate meeting areas, libraries, or quiet workspaces that can be reserved for both private and community use. Ensure the by-laws protect the use of these spaces and encourage their use. 

Outdoor Areas – Rooftops, BBQ spaces, and shared outdoor areas are great facilities that foster community life. Design them for easy maintenance and access control to ensure they are used effectively. 

Strategic Location of Services – Placing building managers or concierges in visible central locations boosts interaction and service quality. If meeting spaces are not possible, consider providing areas within management offices for meetings. 

Access and Security – Use building security systems to control access to communal areas, ensuring safety and proper usage.

Governance and Leadership

Effective governance is essential for long-term success. 

Strong Governance Framework – Go beyond basic strata act provisions in documenting clear roles for key service providers such as strata managers, building managers, security providers and even the committee function. Basic but specific scopes outlining key roles create a foundation for smooth building operations. 

Leadership – Encourage the election of committee members who are community-minded, will be active and want to engage with the broader community. Structure the committee so each member can contribute by carving out areas of responsibility. Regular reports across these areas help build trust and accountability. 

Events and Social Activities

Community events foster interaction and strengthen relationships. 

Welcome Events for New Owners – Consider hosting casual events like welcome drinks or weekend BBQs to welcome new owners and promote interaction among residents. In the initial period, these can be developer-supported, building the community base from the outset.  

AGM and Post-AGM Events – Use the annual general meeting as an opportunity for a community event. Simple functions with a few light snacks and drinks after an AGM will increase meeting attendance and participation. They also encourage efficient meetings, create a positive focus for the attending owners, and help to build better connections. 

Informal Gatherings and Social Media – Utilise informal on-site gatherings or social media channels to engage with residents and gather feedback outside of formal committee meetings.

Sustainability Initiatives

Environmental consciousness builds pride and a sense of ownership in the community. 

Energy Efficiency – Promote energy-saving measures that can reduce costs and environmental impact. 

Waste and Recycling – Consider going beyond standard waste management by initiating and promoting food waste handling, clothing recycling, e-waste facilities, and other freecycling options. Councils will often support these initiatives, and they can build a strong bridge with councils through the development phase. 

Shared Gardens and Landscaping – Encourage communal interaction through the creation of accessible vegetable and herb gardens or shared landscaped areas, allowing green-thumbed residents to engage in these spaces, which enhance the building’s environment.