StrataWorking™ Networking Event Recap
Last Friday, Proctor Legal hosted a networking event called StrataWorking™, a unique gathering aimed at fostering knowledge and collaboration among strata professionals, owners, and residents. The event, which saw an impressive turnout of over 70 participants, brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, from strata managers to unit owners, all eager to engage in meaningful discussions on the complexities of strata living.
The Purpose Behind StrataWorking™
StrataWorking™ has been in development for several years, designed to address a growing need for accessible, digestible education on strata management. As strata issues become more prevalent, it's essential for both professionals and residents to be informed about their rights, responsibilities, and the nuances of strata living. The event took a fun, thought-provoking approach to education through a "hypothetical" scenario panel, where industry experts offered practical insights on common strata challenges.
Panel of Experts
The event’s highlight was the panel of experts who participated in an engaging, fictional scenario set at the infamous "Faulty Towers" apartment complex. The panel included:
Paul Morton (CEO, Lannock Strata Finance)
Susan Proctor (Specialist Property Lawyer at Proctor Legal)
Sean Hague (Partner at Build& Pty Ltd)
Mili Dukic (Office Manager at Proctor Legal)
Peter Strong (Independent Candidate for Kurrajong)
David Sloan (ACT Technical Expert for Total Surveying Solutions)
Gary Petherbridge (President of OCN ACT)
This diverse group of professionals shared their perspectives on issues like building defects, mould, strata finances, and the challenges of enforcing strata laws.
Key Discussions and Scenarios
The discussions revolved around real-world challenges faced by strata owners and managers, though the scenarios were fictionalized. Some of the key takeaways included:
Building Defects and Maintenance
The hypothetical scenario involving "Faulty Towers" highlighted the importance of addressing structural concerns within the warranty period. Sean Hague shared valuable insights on how to navigate the process of dealing with building defects, particularly issues related to building movement.Strata Financing Options
Paul Morton discussed the complexities of financing strata projects, explaining loan options for building repairs and the role financiers play in helping owners corporations manage unexpected costs.Regulatory Reforms
Peter Strong and Gary Petherbridge delved into policy reforms needed to improve the strata industry, including the potential establishment of a Defect Rectification Fund to aid owners facing financial difficulties due to defective buildings. They also discussed the need for more stringent enforcement of the Strata Managers Code of Conduct.Conflict of Interest and Strata Governance
One of the more heated hypothetical scenarios involved a conflict of interest within a strata committee, raising important questions about governance, ethics, and transparency in strata management.
The event wrapped up with an open Q&A session, where attendees had the chance to ask questions and dive deeper into the topics covered.
The evening concluded with a networking session, allowing participants to connect with peers and panellists in a more informal setting, continuing the conversations sparked during the event.
Supporting the Canberra Hospital Foundation
In addition to fostering collaboration and learning, StrataWorking™ proudly supported a great cause—raising awareness and funds for the Canberra Hospital Foundation via Susan Proctor’s Big Wig Challenge.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
A special thank you to Lannock Strata Finance and Build&, the sponsors who made StrataWorking™ possible. Their support ensured the event's success and helped foster a sense of community and collaboration among those who live and work in strata environments.
Stay tuned for future StrataWorking™ events—Proctor Legal is committed to continuing this vital conversation around strata living and management!