New NSW Strata Rules: Committee Training and Two-Lot Reporting Changes
Serving on a strata committee can seem like a small commitment, until a building needs major repairs, an insurance renewal becomes contentious or neighbours disagree about renovations. New NSW rules make training part of the role and simplify annual reporting for two-lot schemes.
The changes commenced on 1 October 2026. Owners should check which requirements apply before their next annual general meeting.
Training is now part of the job
New and returning strata committee members appointed from 1 October 2026 generally have three months from appointment to complete free online training through NSW Fair Trading. Experience on the committee does not itself provide an exemption.
The introductory course takes about an hour and is self-paced. It covers duties, repairs and maintenance, finances, meetings, records and dispute resolution: the everyday issues that can become expensive when handled poorly.
Check the appointment date
A member appointed before 1 October 2026 does not have to complete training until their next appointment. For example, a member appointed on 1 October must complete it by 1 January 2027.
Exemptions include members in two-lot schemes, NSW strata managing agents, Australian College of Strata Lawyers members, and people filling a casual vacancy for less than three months. The requirement does not extend to association committees in community land schemes.
Missing the deadline affects membership
NSW Fair Trading advises that a member who misses the training deadline automatically ceases to hold their committee position. Sending a reminder is good practice, but removal does not depend on a reminder being sent. The scheme should check whether a replacement member or office-bearer is needed. A missed deadline does not automatically invalidate every earlier decision; obtain advice if the committee's composition or authority is disputed.
Two-lot schemes: less annual reporting
From 1 October 2026, two-lot strata schemes, including many duplexes, no longer need to submit the annual strata report. Other schemes generally still report through Strata Hub within three months of their AGM. Owners should distinguish this particular exemption from the scheme's other responsibilities. Before stopping an existing administrative practice, identify the obligation involved and check whether a separate rule still applies.
Practical steps for your scheme
Keep a simple register of appointment dates, applicable exemptions and training deadlines. Ask members to provide their completion certificates to the secretary, and organise reminders well before the deadline. At the next AGM, explain the training requirement before people nominate. This helps volunteers understand the commitment and reduces the risk of an unexpected vacancy when important decisions are approaching.
ow JSM Lawyers can help
JSM Lawyers can assist owners and purchasers with strata-related property issues, review relevant documents and advise on disputes. Early advice can help identify the legal issue and the practical options available.
This article provides general information only and is not legal advice. Information is current as at 22 October 2026.
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