Are committee members personally liable?
Flatflo editorial team · Last reviewed 2026-10-20
Quick answer
State laws generally protect committee members who act honestly and in good faith from personal liability for committee decisions. Protection may not apply to dishonest or reckless conduct. Office bearers' liability insurance gives extra protection and is worth considering.
The full answer
Act in the interests of the owners corporation, declare conflicts, follow proper process and keep records of decisions. These habits are your best protection. Get legal advice for anything unusual.
Follow-up questions
General information only, not legal advice. Strata rules differ between states and change over time; check your state's law or get advice for your situation. Last reviewed 2026-10-20.
Related questions
What does a strata chairperson do?The chairperson runs general and committee meetings, keeps discussion on the agenda, makes sure votes are counted correctly and often signs documents on behalf of the owners corporation. In many self-managed buildings the chair is also the main point of contact for owners.What does a strata secretary do?The secretary sends meeting notices and agendas, takes and circulates minutes, keeps the strata roll and records up to date, and handles most correspondence. They make sure notice periods are met so decisions made at meetings are valid.What does a strata treasurer do?The treasurer prepares the budget, issues levy notices, records income and spending, pays approved bills, follows up unpaid levies and prepares financial statements for the AGM. They make sure the books match the bank account.How is a strata committee elected?Committee members are usually elected at the AGM by the owners. Owners nominate themselves or others, and the meeting votes. The committee then chooses or confirms its office holders, such as chair, secretary and treasurer, following your state's rules.What if a committee member has a conflict of interest?They should declare it before the matter is discussed and usually not vote on it. A common example is a committee member whose relative or business quotes for work on the building. Record the declaration in the minutes so everyone can see the process was fair.