NSW Strata Law Changes 2025: What Owners Need to Know

From July 2025, significant reforms to New South Wales strata laws will change the way apartment buildings plan for sustainability. Owners Corporations must now consider water and energy use, alongside sustainability upgrades, when preparing their annual Capital Works Fund. This includes planning for EV charging infrastructure, solar panels, heat pumps, lighting upgrades, and other energy-efficient improvements.

What Has Changed?

The 2025 reforms mean that sustainability is no longer optional—it is required to be factored into annual planning. Owners Corporations must assess the building’s energy and water usage, and explore opportunities for upgrades. This makes it easier for apartment owners and committees to put forward proposals for EV charging stations, hot water system electrification, solar installations, and other eco-friendly improvements.

Implications for Apartment Owners

For individual owners, the reforms open new opportunities to pursue upgrades within their buildings. For example, installing an EV charging station may now face fewer barriers if it aligns with the Owners Corporation’s planning obligations. Owners will find it easier to present a case for sustainable upgrades as a component of broader building initiatives.

Implications for Owners Corporations

For committees, these changes introduce new responsibilities. Annual Capital Works Fund estimates must now incorporate considerations of sustainability. This could involve commissioning energy assessments, reviewing options for common area upgrades (such as LED lighting or solar panels), or planning long-term strategies for electrification. The reforms encourage proactive investment in sustainability rather than reactive, ad-hoc projects.

Future-Proofing Strata Buildings

Beyond compliance, these reforms are about future-proofing. With the growing demand for EV charging and renewable energy, strata buildings that invest early will improve property values and attract environmentally conscious buyers and tenants. Ignoring these requirements could leave buildings behind, both financially and environmentally.

How Energy Smart Strata Can Help

At Energy Smart Strata, we specialise in guiding Owners Corporations and apartment owners through sustainability planning. From energy audits and feasibility studies to managing solar installations and EV charging infrastructure, we partner with strata communities to simplify compliance and deliver long-term value. 

If your building is preparing for the 2025 changes, now is the time to act. Contact Energy Smart Strata today to future-proof your strata community.