Think Being on a Body Corporate Committee is Boring? Think Again.

As strata managers, we truly hear it all and yes, that includes, “Being on the committee is boring.”

While some owners might feel this way, being involved in the day-to-day running of the body corporate is a crucial part of understanding how your building operates, why your levies are structured the way they are, and gaining a deeper appreciation for the generous owners who volunteer their time. These committee members often help save you and other owners significant money in the long run.

Understanding the Role of Your Committee

Each year at the Annual General Meeting (AGM), your body corporate (i.e. the owners of all the lots) elects a group of owners to represent the community. This elected group is responsible for making important decisions on behalf of the body corporate. Their duties include:

• Approving maintenance
• Enforcing by-laws
• Reviewing and managing budgets
• Liaising with your Body Corporate Manager and contractors

While some may consider these tasks “boring,” the truth is that an active and engaged committee can make all the difference between a well-maintained, harmonious scheme and a property that is neglected and undesirable, both for residents and prospective tenants.

An efficient committee also ensures that maintenance is actioned promptly and appropriately, safeguarding the value and condition of your investment.

Who Can Join and Why You Should Consider It

To be eligible to join the committee, you must:

• Be a lot owner, or
• Be a nominee of a lot owner (if the lot is owned by a company)
• Ensure both the nominator and nominee are not in financial arrears at the time of nomination and election

There are several benefits to joining the committee. You’ll have the opportunity to:

• Oversee how levies are managed and spent
• Ensure your scheme is maintained for long-term value and functionality
• Contribute positively to the community you live or invest in

Even if you don’t join the committee, you can still stay informed by reading all body corporate communication. And remember — if anything is unclear, ask questions.

How Many Committee Members Are Required?

There must be a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 7 committee members. However, if your scheme has fewer than 7 lots, then the number of lots becomes the maximum number of committee members.

Typically, the committee consists of:

• Chairperson
• Secretary
• Treasurer

A single member can hold multiple executive positions simultaneously.

Note: This information is relevant to schemes governed by the Standard Module, Accommodation Module, or Commercial Module.

What Happens if Positions Aren’t Filled?

If committee positions remain vacant, the body corporate won’t have a valid committee and may struggle to carry out day-to-day operations effectively. This could result in:

• Additional general meetings to fill vacant roles (with associated costs)
• The need to engage a strata manager under a Part 5 Agreement, which often involves additional administrative expenses

In short, having a functioning committee isn’t just about compliance — it’s also about cost-efficiency, community wellbeing, and asset protection.

Please know that body corporate managers always prefer to work with an active committee. Part 5 agreements are considered a last resort when all other options have been exhausted.

The Role of the Body Corporate Manager

It’s important to understand that while body corporate managers provide guidance, administrative support, and ensure legislative compliance, they do not have the authority to approve spending. That’s why having a functioning, engaged committee is not just helpful, it’s essential.

For further information about the role of the committee, visit the Queensland Government’s official guide:

https://www.qld.gov.au/law/housing-and-neighbours/body-corporate/roles/committee

Alternatively, reach out to your Body Corporate Manager for more tailored guidance.