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Quick answer: Any lot owner in a WA strata scheme can nominate for the Council of Owners. The most effective councils include members who bring relevant skills – such as finance, law, or building maintenance – combined with a genuine commitment to active participation and informed decision-making.

Any lot owner can nominate for the Council of Owners – and that is a good thing. A strong council benefits from diverse perspectives and a genuine interest in the community. However, being on the council is more than just holding a title. It is a commitment to actively contribute to the decisions that shape your strata scheme.

What skills make a strong council member?

  • Finance and accounting: A council member with an accounting background adds real value when reviewing budgets, sinking fund forecasts, and levy structures. They help the council ask the right questions and spot financial risks early.
  • Building and trades knowledge: Someone with construction or trade experience can assess quotes, oversee maintenance projects, and help the scheme avoid overpriced or substandard work. These skills save the scheme time and money.
  • Legal understanding: Familiarity with the Strata Titles Act and WA regulations helps council members govern responsibly and avoid costly disputes or compliance failures.
  • Project management and communication: Organised, clear communicators keep meetings productive and ensure decisions are documented and followed through. These skills are especially valuable when overseeing capital works.

You do not need to be a professional to serve

  • Be willing to show up: Attending meetings, reading reports, and asking questions matters more than having a professional title.
  • Make informed decisions: A council that simply rubber-stamps recommendations without discussion is not serving the owners it represents.
  • Act in the interest of all owners: The best council members set aside personal agendas and focus on what is best for the whole community.

Ask yourself before you nominate

  • Am I prepared to be actively involved? Council membership is a commitment, not just a title.
  • Do I have skills that could benefit the building? Finance, trades, legal knowledge, or simply good communication all add value.
  • Can I make decisions based on the interests of all owners? Not just my own lot or my immediate neighbours.
  • Am I willing to learn how strata governance works in WA? Even experienced professionals benefit from understanding strata-specific rules and responsibilities.

Your strata community deserves council members who are engaged, accountable, and committed to making a genuine difference.

📞 Need guidance on strata governance or thinking about changing strata managers?
Contact Gary: 0477 520 269 | 📩 strata.management@contessi.com.au

P.S. Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group “Strata Living in WA”, a space to learn, ask questions, and connect with other strata owners and Council members.