A Fresh Year, A Smarter Way Forward for Strata Living

The start of a new year always brings a sense of possibility. New goals, fresh energy, and a chance to do things better than before. In strata living, that opportunity matters more than ever.

Across Sydney, strata communities are facing growing complexity, from rising maintenance costs and changing legislation to higher expectations around communication, sustainability, and service. While the challenges are real, so is the opportunity to rethink how strata works and how it supports the people who live and invest in it.

Moving Beyond “Business as Usual”

For many owners and committees, strata management has traditionally been reactive, dealing with issues as they arise, often under pressure. But 2026 is shaping up to be the year more communities shift from reactive management to proactive planning.

That means:

• Anticipating maintenance before it becomes costly

• Using clearer financial forecasting, not just annual budgets

• Making decisions based on long-term value, not short-term fixes

• Communicating earlier, clearer, and more transparently

When strata is managed proactively, buildings last longer, disputes reduce, and owners feel more confident about where their money is going.

People First, Always

At its heart, strata isn’t about buildings, it’s about people. Neighbours, families, investors, and communities all sharing space and responsibility.

The most successful strata communities are those where:

• Owners feel informed, not confused

• Committees feel supported, not overwhelmed

• Decisions are collaborative, not confrontational

• Strong strata management helps create trust. And trust is what turns a group of individual owners into a functioning community.

A Year to Plan, Not Just React

The new year is the perfect time for committees to step back and ask a few simple but powerful questions:

• Do we have a clear plan for the next 5–10 years?

• Are our levies aligned with future maintenance needs?

• Are we getting advice early enough, or only when something goes wrong?

• Is our strata manager helping us think ahead?

• Small changes in planning today can prevent major stress tomorrow.

Looking Ahead with Confidence

This year will bring change, that’s a given. But with the right guidance, change doesn’t have to feel daunting. It can be empowering.

If you’re part of a strata community in Sydney and want this year to run smoother than the last, now is the time to act. Whether it’s reviewing your levies, planning for upcoming capital works, navigating NSW legislation, or simply getting clearer communication and stronger support, the right guidance makes all the difference.

At Compass Strata, we believe great strata management is about clarity, foresight, and genuine partnership. Helping communities navigate challenges confidently, protect their assets, and create places people are proud to live in.

Here’s to a new year of smarter decisions, stronger communities, and strata living that actually works.

👉 Get in touch with Compass Strata today and start the year with confidence.