How to change strata by-laws
Short answer
By-laws are usually changed by a special resolution at a general meeting and then registered or recorded as your state requires before they take effect. Draft the wording carefully and make sure it doesn't conflict with the act.
Steps for your committee
- Agree the problem the by-law should solve.
- Draft clear wording and check it against your state's act.
- Put it to a general meeting as the required resolution type.
- Register or record the change as your state requires and tell every owner.
Rules in your state
Details such as notice periods and voting thresholds are set by each state's legislation.
| State | Legislation | Disputes go to |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 | NSW Fair Trading mediation, then NCAT |
| VIC | Owners Corporations Act 2006 | Internal grievance process, Consumer Affairs Victoria, then VCAT |
| QLD | Body Corporate and Community Management Act 1997 (and its regulation modules) | Office of the Commissioner for Body Corporate and Community Management |
| WA | Strata Titles Act 1985 | State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) |
| SA | Strata Titles Act 1988 / Community Titles Act 1996 | South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) |
| TAS | Strata Titles Act 1998 | Recorder of Titles / Magistrates Court |
| ACT | Unit Titles (Management) Act 2011 | ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) |
| NT | Unit Title Schemes Act 2009 | NT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT) |
When to get professional advice
Have a strata lawyer review by-laws that restrict owners' use of their lots.
Next steps
Related guides
Last reviewed 2026-10-08. General information only — not legal advice.