We would like to introduce a by-law in our strata complex. The motion is being placed on the agenda of a general meeting. The secretary of the committee is canvassing owners to have their proxy before the agenda has been sent out. Is he allowed to only hold 1 proxy and does this motion get passed if no more than 25% oppose? – Frances, NSW

Q: We would like to introduce a by-law in our strata complex of 12 units of which 2 only are used as short term rentals, to limit further use of any units as short term rentals but the 2 to remain as such until they may be sold.

The motion is being placed on the agenda of a general meeting. The secretary of the committee owns one of these 2 units and is canvassing owners to have their proxy before the agenda has been sent out.

Is he allowed to only hold 1 proxy and does this motion get passed if no more than 25% oppose? There are only 5 permanent residents and 5 used as the owners holiday units. The 2 used as short term rentals are not the owners place of residence. Hope this makes sense. Thanking you.

A: The number of proxies one person can hold depends on the number of lots in your strata property and what your state laws permit when it comes to proxy voting at a strata meeting. In New South Wales only one proxy vote is allowed for strata properties with 20 lots/units or less. This means that the secretary of the committee will be allowed to have one proxy as your scheme holds 12 lots. You are correct in stating that this motion will only be passed if no more than 25% oppose it.