Company Titles: How They Differ from Strata Plans

What is the difference between a Company Title and a Unit Plan?

Most Australians are familiar with strata or unit title properties, where owners hold legal ownership of their individual lot within a larger scheme. But another, lesser-known form of ownership still exists—Company Title. While more common in older buildings or specific developments like retirement villages, Company Titles offer a unique structure and governance model. Here’s what sets them apart from Strata Plans, and how Civium can help manage them.

What is a Company Title?

A Company Title is an older form of property ownership that dates back to the 1920s and 1930s. Rather than owning a specific unit, residents own shares in a company that owns the entire building. These shares give them the right to occupy a particular unit.

How is it different to a Unit Plan (Strata Title)?

Strata Plans (also referred to as Unit Plans in some states) became the preferred model from the 1960s onwards. The key differences include:

Ownership Model:

Strata Plan: Owners hold the legal title to their lot.
Company Title: Occupants are shareholders, not titleholders.

Governance Structure:

Strata Plan: Managed by a group of owners who volunteer to be elected to an Executive Committee.
Company Title: Managed by a board of directors, who are often paid.

Legislation:

Company Titles are not bound by strata legislation, offering more autonomy but also more complexity.

Directors typically have greater authority over decision-making.
They are not required to appoint licensed strata managers (although many do).
Shareholders can be vetted before purchase or lease—offering more control over new residents.

Where are Company Titles still used?

Company Titles are most often found in:

Retirement villages and over-55s communities
Older apartment buildings (pre-1960s)
Developments where Strata Plan approval is difficult under current planning requirements

Can Strata Managers manage Company Titles?

Yes—though the structure differs, professional strata managers can provide valuable support to Company Title buildings. At Civium, we work directly with company directors and shareholders to manage:

Financial reporting
Invoicing and payments
Meetings and compliance
Insurance
Repairs and maintenance

Due to inexperience the legislative and operational differences of Company Titles, not all strata companies offer this service—but at Civium, we do.

Company Titles may be less common today, but they remain an important part of Australia’s property landscape. If you’re part of a Company Title building—or considering one—it’s essential to work with a management team that understands its unique structure.