The Courage to Lead: Addressing Key Issues in the Strata Sector
Leading with Integrity: Addressing Critical Strata Sector Challenges
As I reflect on the events of this month, my thoughts are consumed by the pressing issues affecting our members and the broader strata sector. It has been a significant period, so much so, I grappled with where to begin.
Insurance, commissions, ethics, transparency, and fiduciary duties — these terms dominate discussions. Industry experts, often driven by their own interests, have capitalised on the Netstrata commentary to criticise strata managers.
Yet beyond these concerns that keep me awake at night, I recognise additional critical matters: sector sustainability, viability, equity, fairness of practices, and sector-wide transformation. These are not mere abstract concepts; they represent real challenges. Public scrutiny has wounded our sector’s social standing, and now, more than ever, Queensland requires competent and ethical strata managers. Their role is pivotal in the face of strata’s growth and complexity.
Ethics — a foundational pillar — is not the sole responsibility of strata managers. It must permeate every corner of our sector, from top to bottom.
Until now, the public discourse has been one-sided. But that changes today.
A Call for Courage
During our recent advocacy summit, the word “courage” resonated. Last weekend, I took a courageous stand on LinkedIn, calling out unethical practices within our sector. I invite our entire community to engage in the necessary conversation about honesty, integrity, and transparency across the entire insurance supply chain.
Can we improve disclosure? Absolutely.
Are we actively enhancing our practices? Without a doubt.
Should we bear sole responsibility for these issues? Certainly not.
Engaging in debates over who gets paid and protecting one part of the chain at the expense of another serves no purpose. It pains me that dedicated and professional strata managers have become collateral damage in this verbal battle.
The Bigger Picture: Consumer Focus
Our larger conversation must centre on consumers. How can we ensure full transparency, including broking fees? How do we empower consumers with informed choices?
This dialogue demands courage—to confront uncomfortable truths, demand excellence from ourselves and our peers and commit to an ethical and transparent future for our sector.
Together, let’s take this bold step. Let’s lead with integrity, shaping an even ethically stronger strata sector. Our future and the trust we build depend on it.
Laura Bos
SCAQ General Manager
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