The 2025–26 State and Territory Budgets reveal a mixed national picture for the strata sector, with some governments stepping up to integrate strata into their housing and infrastructure strategies, while others have missed critical opportunities to invest in the fastest growing form of housing in the country. Strata Community Association (SCA), the national peak body for strata professionals, has conducted a comparative analysis of budget announcements across New South Wales, Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory and Western Australia. The findings expose both progress and gaps in how governments are preparing for the future of apartment and townhouse living. Key National Trends:
Strata Integral to Housing Growth Most jurisdictions acknowledge the need for accelerated housing supply, with strata at the forefront of urban development. However, only a few states are actively planning for the governance, regulatory and workforce needs that strata communities require.
Workforce Development Still Lacking Despite the complexity of managing high density housing, few states are investing directly in strata management education, training or capability building. Affordability and Access Focus States such as Queensland and WA are leading with equity schemes and incentives that directly support entry into strata housing, particularly for first home buyers. State Performance Highlights: Western Australia – Leading the Pack WA's budget includes expanded off the plan stamp duty concessions, a $210 million shared equity scheme, and a $101 million infrastructure fund that supports medium density and strata housing. The inclusion of townhouses, villas and community title schemes positions WA as the most strata responsive government this budget cycle. Queensland – Strong Commitments, Growing Opportunity With $8.1 billion in housing investment, Queensland's Homes for Queenslanders plan outlines a clear path to one million homes by 2046. SCA Queensland welcomes the Boost to Buy scheme, recognition of the Commissioner for Body Corporate, and increasing focus on proactive, professionally managed communities. ACT – On the Right Path but Cost Pressures Rising The ACT Government clearly recognises that more than half of Canberra's new homes will be strata titled. It has committed to major housing and land release projects. However, the introduction of new levies and rates may place additional financial pressure on strata communities, underscoring the need for professional management from the outset. New South Wales – Ambitious Targets, Limited Stratification NSW's target of 377,000 new homes by 2029 reflects strong ambition, but SCA NSW warns that without deliberate planning for strata governance and regulation, the state risks building complexity into future communities. Streamlined approvals and recognition of strata managers are urgently needed. States Missing in Action Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory have yet to announce meaningful strata focused reforms or funding in their budgets. This absence raises concerns about how well high-density growth will be managed and whether the right governance structures will be in place. Quotes from SCA Australasia President, Joshua Baldwin: "We are seeing strong leadership in some jurisdictions where strata is treated not just as a housing typology, but as a community and economic system that needs investment, regulation and professional support." "Governments that fail to plan for the management of these communities will end up paying the price in building quality issues, resident dissatisfaction and legal disputes." "This is a critical moment for Australia. With the majority of new housing to be strata titled, the sector must be equipped with the right policy, the right people and the right planning frameworks." "Strata can no longer be an underserved sector. It is central to Australia's housing future, and the states that recognise that will build stronger, more resilient communities." Conclusion: SCA calls on all governments to embed strata into housing policy and infrastructure delivery, ensuring that growing communities have the governance, compliance and professional management they need to thrive. Strata managers are not an afterthought. They are essential to Australia's urban future.
