Income Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

NSW Review Sheds Light on Strata Sector Transparency

NSW Review Sheds Light on Strata Sector Transparency

NSW Review Sheds Light on Strata Sector Transparency?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The NSW state government has initiated a deep dive into the operations of a leading strata management firm.
This move underscores a growing tide of demand for increased clarity and fairness in the industry.
Responding to mounting public scrutiny, this investigation sets a new precedent in the regulation of property management entities.

An exposé by ABC triggered the closer examination of Sydney-based agency Netstrata, spotlighting the steep insurance brokerage fees imposed on property owners. Such revelations drew attention to the industry's standard practices, prompting a call for a systemic overhaul. Reports suggested that Netstrata, through its insurance division, levied charges reaching triple the average rate and received undisclosed benefits from service providers and contractors.

The agency, overseeing a portfolio including over a thousand buildings and some 35,000 units, reportedly accumulated upwards of $21 million in brokerage fees since 2015. Amidst this controversy, Stephen Brell, the agency's Managing Director, stepped down from his position as president of the Strata Community Association NSW.

In response to these events, NSW Fair Trading has teamed up with McGrathNicol, an independent consultancy, to scrutinize Netstrata's operations. Their investigation will unfold the intricacies of the firm's business model, meticulously reviewing internal structures, financial dealings, incentives, fees, and external partnerships. This action signals the government's resolve to ensure a credible strata management landscape.

Emphasizing the importance of trust in strata management, State Strata and Property Services Commissioner John Minns articulated the growing preference for strata living among NSW citizens, stressing the necessity for dependable stewardship of their valued assets. "Strata professionals must serve with integrity," Minns stated, echoing the urgency of nurturing consumer confidence. "NSW Fair Trading's determined response is a testament to our dedication to fostering a reliable and responsible strata sector."

While Netstrata defends the integrity of its procedures, the organization acknowledges the public's appetite for greater transparency. According to a statement, Netstrata is committed to exemplary service delivery and is actively conducting an internal review to enhance the clarity of its disclosure practices, promising to exceed current statutory disclosure standards. "Our commitment to transparency is unwavering; we pledge full cooperation with NSW Fair Trading in disclosing our financial operations," affirmed the agency.

Published:Monday, 6th May 2024
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Rate this article

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.

Insurance News

Why Claim Clarity Matters More Than Ever for Income Insurance
Why Claim Clarity Matters More Than Ever for Income Insurance
13 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent complaints reporting from Australia's financial dispute resolution system has put a practical issue back in front of workers: the value of income insurance is not only in the monthly benefit promised, but in how clearly a policy works when a claim is made. - read more
What Genetic Testing Reform Could Mean for Income Protection Applicants
What Genetic Testing Reform Could Mean for Income Protection Applicants
05 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia’s move to restrict the use of adverse genetic test results in life insurance underwriting is an important development for people who have been hesitant to explore personal cover. While the reform is usually discussed in relation to life insurance, it also matters for income insurance because many retail policies sit within the broader life insurance framework. - read more
What a More Stable Income Protection Market Means for Your Pay Packet
What a More Stable Income Protection Market Means for Your Pay Packet
29 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent APRA life insurance performance data has given the income protection sector a cautiously positive signal: the market appears to be moving through a more stable phase after several years of product redesign, pricing pressure and closer regulatory attention. For consumers, the important point is not that cover has suddenly become simple, but that insurer sustainability and claim reliability remain central to the value of any policy. - read more
Why the Simple Advice Push Matters for Your Cover
Why the Simple Advice Push Matters for Your Cover
22 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia’s life insurance sector has renewed its push for consumers to receive simpler help with the cover they already hold, particularly through superannuation. The Council of Australian Life Insurers has again argued that many people need clearer, more accessible guidance about insurance inside super, including death, disability and, where available, income protection insurance. - read more
Chronic Illness Risk Puts Fresh Focus on Income Insurance
Chronic Illness Risk Puts Fresh Focus on Income Insurance
15 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
New research highlighted by Zurich has put a timely spotlight on a major challenge for Australian workers: people are living longer, but many are also spending more of those years managing chronic health conditions. For households that rely on a regular wage, salary, business income or contract work, this trend reinforces why income insurance is not just a product for sudden accidents. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

Common Pitfalls in Income Insurance Claims and How to Avoid Them
Common Pitfalls in Income Insurance Claims and How to Avoid Them
Income insurance is a critical component of financial planning, offering a safety net when life's uncertainties impact your income stream. It ensures that you can continue meeting your financial obligations even if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially in an unpredictable job market. - read more
Income Protection vs Life Insurance: How They Work Together
Income Protection vs Life Insurance: How They Work Together
Income protection and life insurance are both designed to reduce financial pressure when major life events affect a household. They do different jobs: one can help replace income if illness or injury stops you working, while the other can provide a lump sum to beneficiaries if you die. - read more
Illness and Your Finances: Strategies for Continuous Income Flow
Illness and Your Finances: Strategies for Continuous Income Flow
When illness strikes, the impact on your finances can be as significant as on your health. Maintaining continuous income flow during such times is crucial for financial stability. - read more
Income Protection Insurance for Australian Entrepreneurs: How It Works and What to Consider
Income Protection Insurance for Australian Entrepreneurs: How It Works and What to Consider
Australian entrepreneurs, sole traders and self-employed business owners often rely directly on their own ability to work and earn. Income protection insurance is designed to provide a replacement income if illness or injury temporarily prevents you from working, helping you understand how this cover may fit into broader financial and business planning. - read more
Income Protection Insurance: Balancing Cost with Adequate Cover
Income Protection Insurance: Balancing Cost with Adequate Cover
Income protection insurance can provide replacement income if illness or injury leaves you unable to work. The challenge is choosing cover that reflects your financial commitments without paying for features or benefit levels that do not suit your circumstances. - read more


Start Here !
disability protection
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here:

Cover Type:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided obligation-free by a participating broker from our national referral partner network. We respect your Privacy.