How can we encourage more balanced participation and fair decision-making when a few committee members dominate discussions?
There’s an ongoing power struggle within our NSW strata committee. A few dominant members make most of the decisions, while the rest of us feel excluded from having any meaningful input. What are some best practice steps or governance measures we can take to promote transparency, equal participation, and fair decision-making in our committee meetings?
Focus on transparent decision-making, respectful discussion at meetings, and constructive engagement with fellow owners.
This is probably one of the hardest parts about strata living. We’re in a democracy, and owners elect certain people to represent them. Some of those people are more energetic or have stronger views about the direction the building should take, which can lead to tension in decision-making.
I’d suggest holding regular strata committee meetings where decisions are properly discussed and recorded. It sounds like this person is already on the committee but feels sidelined. If that’s the case, the next annual general meeting (AGM) is an opportunity to speak with other owners and express your views. You might encourage others who share your perspective to join the committee.
Unfortunately, committees can sometimes become factional, which makes things difficult. That’s part of the political nature of owners corporations. The best you can do is to focus on transparent decision-making, respectful discussion at meetings, and constructive engagement with fellow owners. If that doesn’t lead to change, use the AGM as a chance to talk to others about how the committee might work more collaboratively in the future.
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Hugh McCormack is Managing Director of McCormacks Strata Management, Sydney’s leading strata management company for 30 years, with a 99% customer retention rate. Over the past 20 years, Hugh has transformed the company into a leading-edge strata advisory firm, partnering with some of Sydney’s most prestigious complexes – large and small – and leveraging modern technology to ensure a first-class customer experience.
Hugh holds a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Real Estate, Finance and Sustainable Development, and serves as the sole director of McCormacks Strata Management.
In addition to his role at McCormacks, Hugh is actively involved in the strata sector. He has served as Vice President of the Strata Community Association (NSW) and is a champion of education and training in the industry, striving to improve standards across the board.
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