The Auckland District Law Society and Strata Community Association (NZ) 2022 half-day conference was held on 8th September 2022, in-person and via webstream. It was a chance to reflect on an interesting year – in terms of legal issues, manager issues, and of course a pivotal time with the changes to the Legislation on the horizon.
The conference began with insights from Vicki and Paula into intensification and was followed by the annual highlight, Thomas’ case Law update, always controversial as more precedents are set and discussed in a room full of great legal minds!
Next it was our absolute pleasure to have Julie McLean return from SC Victoria alongside Bryan. Julie has been pivotal in the success of SCA(NZ) and an absolute jewel in our crown when it comes to raising the bar and leading the way. It was timely to hear her views on the challenges the industry faces with mental health & wellness as the world opens up and we continue to navigate Covid-19, amongst other things!
The rest of the afternoon was dedicated to the Unit Titles (Strengthening Body Corporate Governance and Other Matters) Amendment Act (“Amendment Act”) ̶ which although has been a long time coming and implementation timeframes and regulations are still unknown, will no doubt help clarify the roles and responsibilities in the unit titles space. The Act gained Royal assent 9th May 2022 and will come into force either on 1 or more dates set by Order in Council, or (to the extent not brought into force earlier), on the second anniversary of the date of Royal assent (that being 9th May 2024). It may be that one or more Orders of Council may set different dates for different provisions, so that will give effect to some, but not other, parts of the UTA2022.
Even with several hours, and industry leaders such as Joanna, Liza, Christine, Ben and Tim on the case, we were only able to touch the sides of what to expect, and practical ways to tackle what lies ahead, in particular around Governance, Committees, Managers & Disclosure. I think its far to say the industry as a whole waits with baited breath on further updates from the Ministry.
Post another successful JV symposium with the ADLS, it was great to once again have a huge presence in the room together and a wonderful networking function afterwards. A huge thank you to all involved.
Joanne Barreto
SCA(NZ) President
