Setting strata levies and the annual budget
Short answer
The committee prepares a budget for running costs and for future major works, and owners approve the levies at a general meeting. Each lot pays according to its entitlement. A maintenance or capital works plan helps avoid big special levies later.
Steps for your committee
- Review last year's spending and known upcoming costs.
- Check the long-term maintenance or capital works plan.
- Prepare both budgets and the levy per entitlement.
- Put the budget and levies to the general meeting.
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
An accountant or quantity surveyor can help with long-term forecasts.
Next steps
Related guides
Last reviewed 2026-10-08. General information only — not legal advice.