Pobi Lawyers

19/12/2025

As this year draws to a close, I’ve taken some time to reflect.

It’s been a year of challenge, learning, and growth, but also one marked by some very encouraging moments. Working alongside a committed and capable legal team, and in collaboration with excellent strata managers, engineers, and other experts, we were able to achieve meaningful outcomes for our clients. I’m genuinely grateful for the team I have the privilege of working with, their professionalism, integrity, and consistency make a real difference.

I sincerely thank our clients for their trust, the professionals we collaborate with for their support, and my family for their patience and encouragement behind the scenes.

This year has not been without difficulty, both personally and in the world around us. My hope and prayer is that the year ahead brings greater love, peace, and light in our work, our relationships, and our communities.

Thank you to those who have stood by me over the years. I look forward to continuing to serve our clients in the New Year.

Wishing everyone a safe and peaceful festive season and a wonderful start to 2026.

25/05/2025

Pobi Lawyers is pleased to have successfully acted for the Owners Corporation in both the original NCAT proceedings and the subsequent appeal in Evans v The Owners – SP 40841 [2025] NSWCATAP 113.

The Appeal Panel dismissed the appeal, refused an extension of time, and upheld the original Tribunal decision confirming there was no breach of section 106 of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and no basis for a compulsory strata manager.

This is a strong outcome for our client and reinforces key principles in NSW strata law.

Read the full decision:

This link will take you to a page that’s not on LinkedIn

21/12/2023

21/12/2023

https://www.pobilawyers.com.au/echoes-of-discontent-navigating-noise-disputes-jiang-v-sui/

In this article, we delve deep into the cases of Jiang v Sui, exploring the background, main concerns, Laws in Focus, and the Tribunal’s aspects.

21/12/2023

https://www.pobilawyers.com.au/3364-2/

Understanding the Non-Recoverability of Mediation Costs in Strata Disputes – A Key Appeal Decision Analysis – The Owners – Strata Plan No 21563 v Rutherford [2023] NSWCATAP 326 13 Dec, 2023 | Understanding the Non-Recoverability of Mediation Costs in Strata Disputes – A Key Appeal Decision A...

04/08/2023

I recently had the privilege of being featured in the Sydney Morning Herald, sharing my insights on the current challenges in dealing with NSW Fair Trading, particularly concerning strata mediation. I've highlighted some key issues and potential solutions, aiming to trigger much-needed changes in strata law processes. Find out more in the full article on our website:
https://www.pobilawyers.com.au/sydney-morning-herald-features-our-strata-law-expertise-on-nsw-fair-trading-issues/
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Sydney Morning Herald Features Our Strata Law Expertise on NSW Fair Trading Issues 4 Aug, 2023 | I recently had the privilege of being featured in an article by the Sydney Morning Herald. The article, accessible here, casts a spotlight on the significant challenges individuals often encounter when d...

16/07/2023

Recently, I had the privilege of contributing as a spokesperson in an insightful article published by the SMH discussing the current state of Fair Trading mediation in New South Wales. The piece explores the challenges, opportunities, and crucial delays we're facing in this space. Click the link below to read my thoughts and others and join the conversation. Let's together strive for a more efficient and fair system!

Mediation is a compulsory step before owners can take strata issues to a tribunal, but applications have hit record highs and just six mediators are working to resolve issues.

17/05/2023

Landmark Decision on Time Limits in Strata Disputes: Crucial Insights for Strata Managers

A recent ruling from the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) Appeal Panel (Hua Nan Trading Pty Ltd v The Owners – Strata Plan No 32396 [2023] NSWCATAP 66) has potentially changed the course of strata dispute resolution. The case revolved around a strata lot owner who had exceeded the standard two-year limit for lodging a claim for damages related to alleged defective work.

Key issues emerged during the appeal, primarily the interpretation of time limitations under the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 (SSMA) and the NCAT Act.

In a landmark decision, the Appeal Panel held that the Tribunal has the power to extend the two-year limit for strata claims. This ability, conferred by Section 41 of the NCAT Act, allows the Tribunal to extend time limits "despite anything to the contrary" in other legislation. This change could significantly affect many strata stakeholders, particularly those who are unrepresented or come from culturally diverse backgrounds.

As professionals deeply invested in the well-being of our strata community, what does this mean for us?

Understanding Extended Time Frames: We must be aware that the standard two-year limit for lodging claims can now be extended, which could potentially increase the window for liabilities.

Early and Active Mediation: The time taken for mediation now holds weight in determining extensions of time. It's now more vital than ever to engage proactively and early in mediation processes.

The Value of Meticulous Record-Keeping: With potential claims having an extended life span, diligent record-keeping and heightened awareness of potential claims become more crucial.

Informed Decision Making: This decision underscores the complexity of strata disputes and reinforces the importance of sound, professional legal advice.

As we navigate these changes together, I remain committed to keeping you informed and providing the support you need. This decision is a potent reminder of the dynamic nature of strata law and its implications for our community.

Disclaimer: This is commentary published by Pobi Lawyers for general information purposes only and should not be relied upon as specific legal advice. You should obtain your own legal advice specific to your circumstances before you take any action or otherwise rely on the contents of this article. The content of this article is subject to change. The law is also subject to change.

25/11/2022

https://www.pobilawyers.com.au/2022/11/25/claims-for-unreasonable-refusal-of-bylaws-just-got-trickier/

Claims for unreasonable refusal of bylaws just got trickier 25 Nov, 2022 | Claims for unreasonable refusal of bylaws just got trickier Introduction In the recent decision of Kaye v The Owners – Strata Plan No 4350 [2022] NSWSC 1386, the Supreme Court of New South Wales dismissed an appeal from the...

12/07/2022

Check out our new Ebook! An Overview of Compulsory Strata Management Law in NSW. This Ebook is suitable as a reference for owners, tenants, strata managers and owners corporations when preparing or defending compulsory strata management applications in NCAT. To order your copy, click on the link below👇

https://tinyurl.com/2c6wh4un

The Table of Contents of the Ebook is set out below:
Introduction
The Tribunal
The Relevant Law – Section 237 of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015
How Should the Tribunal Apply the Legal Test?
Useful tips when preparing compulsory strata management applications
Common traps and mistakes to avoid when preparing compulsory strata management applications
Consequences and risks of appointment of compulsory strata managing agent
Other orders
Costs orders
About the Author

An Overview of Compulsory Strata Management Law in New South Wales by Michael Pobi, principal specialist strata lawyer, Pobi Lawyers.

11/07/2022

10 YEARS!!! 😀 Today marks 10 years since I opened Pobi Lawyers on 11 July 2012. I still remember that day, taking a leap of faith to do my own thing with no security and zero client base. But here I am today a decade later. It has been a great journey. I have to give credit where it is due. I would not be here without Jesus, the incredible support of my loyal team, clients, friends, colleagues and my loving family.

I look forward to the next 10 years.

29/06/2022

Check out our new Ebook - An Overview of Compulsory Strata Management Law in New South Wales. This Ebook is suitable as a reference for owners, tenants, strata managers and owners corporations when preparing or defending compulsory strata management applications in NCAT under section 237 of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015. To order your copy, click below 👇

https://tinyurl.com/2c6wh4un

An Overview of Compulsory Strata Management Law in New South Wales by Michael Pobi, principal specialist strata lawyer, Pobi Lawyers.