An innovative and flexible new form of land tenure that will unlock new opportunities for Western Australia's property sector is now in effect.
The Community Titles Act 2018 gives effect to a new type of tenure and subdivision - the community scheme - which offers an alternative to strata.
The community scheme gives more options and enhanced flexibility to the management and staging of new mixed-use developments.
Using a multi-tiered structure, community schemes can provide for tailored mix-use development options offering a more equitable approach to shared and common property.
Community schemes allow a single parcel of freehold land to be subdivided into a maximum of three tiers of schemes.
The schemes provide for a more seamless integration of retail, residential and commercial uses under a single overarching scheme.
The unique multi-tier structure opens up new possibilities for what can be achieved on a single site, bringing enhanced capabilities and potential efficiencies across shared infrastructure, governance arrangements and common property ownership.
A fair and targeted approach to common property ownership, where people only contribute to the common property they use, is expected to hold strong appeal for future owners.
For more information on the new community titles law, visit https://www.strata.wa.gov.au or call Landgate's customer service on (08) 9273 7373.
As stated by Lands Minister Tony Buti:
"WA's newest land tenure option presents our State with an exciting opportunity for new-look developments.
"Community schemes can more seamlessly manage a range of uses, such as shops, cafés, offices, residential properties and recreational facilities.
"A first for WA, the multi-tier structure of community schemes can support unparalleled flexibility and customisation within the management of new mixed-use developments.
"Community schemes deliver WA's property sector a powerful new management tool for mixed-use development.
"The scale of opportunity presented by this new land tenure holds considerable promise for those ready to explore its potential."
As stated by Planning Minister Rita Saffioti:
"We've been working to implement strata reform for many years and I'm so pleased we have delivered on these changes.
"The flexibility afforded by community schemes will change the urban landscape by giving investors, owners and tenants the choice and autonomy they seek.
"Together with the strong leadership we are providing through planning reform to deliver greater housing diversity, community schemes are another tool that will help drive innovation.
"Community schemes, combined with our METRONET projects, will also support the creation of vibrant new communities across our cities and towns, while creating new local jobs."
