Introduction
The introduction of the new BCCM Form 33 in Queensland has raised urgent compliance questions for many body corporate managers. One of the biggest issues is how to handle schemes that still rely on a Registrar’s Standard Statement as their community management statement (CMS).
What Is a Registrar’s Standard Statement?
Many older schemes in Queensland still use a one-page CMS that simply states:
“Taken to be those in effect as at 13 July 2000.”
At first glance, managers may assume this single page is enough. However, the new Form 33 makes clear this is not the case. It states:
“In some older schemes, the community management statement may state that the by-laws as at 13 July 2000 apply. In these cases, a document listing the by-laws in consolidated form must be given with this certificate.” (emphasis added)
Why This Matters for Compliance
To properly complete a Form 33, bodies corporate must assemble the by-laws in a consolidated form and provide them with the certificate. This is not optional — it is a legal compliance requirement.
And this is not a rare issue. In fact, there are over 10,000 schemes in Queensland still operating under Registrar’s Standard Statements. If you are a body corporate manager, the odds are high you will have at least a few of these schemes.
Key Questions for Body Corporate Managers
If you are dealing with one of these older CMSs, consider:
How confident are you in compiling “the by-laws in consolidated form”?
Does your professional indemnity insurance cover you if you make a mistake? Remember, determining “what are the current by-laws” is a legal question.
Would you prefer a strata law expert to prepare the consolidated by-laws for you?
How Bugden Allen Can Help
At Bugden Allen, we have been preparing consolidated by-laws for years — for lodging new CMSs, conducting due diligence on unit and management rights purchases, and advising lot owners on their rights and obligations under by-laws.
Our team understands the complexities and pitfalls of this process, and we can provide peace of mind by ensuring your scheme is fully compliant — and that the job is done right.
Next Steps for Managers
If you are a body corporate manager and you suspect you have schemes with a Registrar’s Standard Statement, now is the time to act. Don’t risk non-compliance or expose yourself to negligence claims.
Contact Bugden Allen today and let us prepare the consolidated by-laws for you — quickly, accurately, and under the care of Queensland’s leading strata law specialists.
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This article was written by Michael Young, Senior Associate, Sunshine Coast. It was first published on 22 August 2025.
© Bugden Allen Group Legal Pty Ltd. This is general information only and not legal advice. You should not rely on this information without seeking legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
