What to do when an owner doesn't pay levies
Short answer
Send a clear reminder, then a formal notice, and offer a payment plan where appropriate. If the debt continues, your state's act allows interest and recovery action. Treat every owner the same way and keep a record of each step.
Steps for your committee
- Send a friendly reminder.
- Send a formal overdue notice.
- Offer a payment plan if suitable.
- Escalate to recovery action as your state allows.
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
Get legal advice before starting court or tribunal recovery.
Next steps
Related guides
Last reviewed 2026-10-08. General information only — not legal advice.