The historic reforms are to benefit thousands in the Illawarra who own, rent or manage strata; and relate to areas like pets, smoking, parking, accountability of strata managers and making it easier for renovations.

It’s the first time major strata reforms have been introduced in NSW since 1973 and follows five years of extensive public consultation.

While homebuyers can now benefit from easier access to pre-purchased property inspection reports.

Representatives from NSW Fair Trading and the Real Estate Institute of NSW will host a training session for professionals, covering the 90 changes that will come into effect.

“[They] are substantial and it is important for our members to understand their responsibilities under the new legislation,” REINSW CEO Tim McKibbin said.