If you're behind on levies, NSW now has a standard process to help. From 27 October 2025, owners can request a payment plan using a NSW Fair Trading standard form — and the strata committee must respond in writing within 28 days, with no blanket refusals and no fees.
How it works
- The owner submits the request using the standard form: Request for a payment plan for overdue contributions.
- The committee or owners corporation considers it.
- A written response must be given within 28 days.
- If refused, written reasons must be provided.
What the law now requires
- Every request must be considered on its merits.
- A committee can't pass a blanket resolution refusing all payment plans.
- No fee can be charged for making, starting or continuing a plan.
- Plans run for up to 12 months. Another plan can be agreed once that one ends.
- A plan can't cover future levies — only what's already overdue.
When a refusal is reasonable
A committee may reasonably refuse a plan if approving it would mean the scheme can't meet its obligations. Specifically, if:
- The capital works or admin fund would fall into deficit
- There wouldn't be enough money to repair and maintain common property
- There wouldn't be enough money to pay expenses
- The scheme couldn't comply with an enforceable undertaking, compliance notice or other order
If you think a refusal isn't reasonable, you can apply to NSW Fair Trading for mediation or to NCAT for an order.
Hardship information on every levy notice
Also from 27 October 2025, every levy notice must come with a Financial Hardship Information Statement (or include the information). This includes contact details for the National Debt Helpline — a free, confidential, independent financial counselling service.
What this means for your scheme
This is a practical change that benefits everyone. For owners doing it tough, there's now a proper, dignified process. For schemes, it reduces the chance of debts spiralling — and the legal costs that come with chasing them.
If you're behind, don't wait until a recovery solicitor's letter arrives. A payment plan is far cheaper than letting it escalate, and we'd much rather sort it early. Get in touch and we'll walk you through the form.
How to lodge a request with us
You can submit a payment plan request to us using our online form or PDF. We'll respond within the legal 28 days — usually a lot quicker.
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Source
NSW Government — Guide to strata law changes for strata committees and owners (1 April 2026): nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/strata/guide-to-strata-law-changes-for-strata-committees-and-owners