The Christmas Gift Dilemma in Strata: Where Goodwill Meets Governance

The festive season arrives each year with familiar rituals. Offices fill with decorations, inboxes overflow with well wishes, and across the strata sector a quiet and often uncomfortable question resurfaces: what is appropriate when it comes to Christmas gifting?

In many industries gifts are a simple gesture of gratitude. In strata they come with legal, ethical and reputational considerations that should never be overlooked. Queensland’s body corporate legislation imposes clear disclosure obligations on strata managers. On top of that, reputable firms across the state maintain internal policies that are often even stricter. They do this to protect their teams, their clients and the integrity of the profession.

The issue is not whether generosity is inherently wrong. It is about understanding the difference between appreciation and influence. When a contractor, caretaker or supplier gives a gift to a strata manager, the intention may be entirely benign. The perception, however, can be something quite different. Strata managers make decisions or provide recommendations that can directly affect businesses working in buildings. Even when everyone behaves ethically, the optics can become problematic.

This is where the ethical slippery slope begins. At first glance, a bottle of wine or a hamper might seem harmless. Yet once the value increases, or once gifting becomes regular or targeted, the line between goodwill and inducement becomes blurred. Perception matters. Transparency matters. Professional distance matters. And the public expects these standards of anyone working in a trusted role.

Most strata firms know this and act accordingly. Many have policies that restrict the type or value of gifts that can be accepted. Some require items to be registered internally so there is an objective record. Others have adopted zero-gift policies, choosing to avoid any risk altogether. These are not rules created to dampen festive spirit. They are safeguards that uphold the professionalism of the sector.

For strata managers, these policies relieve them of difficult judgment calls. For suppliers and contractors, they provide clarity. For committees and residents, they protect confidence in the decisions being made on behalf of their community. Strong gifting policies support a culture of accountability and trust, and they prevent misunderstandings that can escalate into bigger issues.

As we move through the Christmas season, it is worth remembering why these rules exist. A simple thank you note, a card or a message of appreciation can have just as much impact as a physical gift. What matters most is respect for the professional boundaries that enable strata managers to do their jobs without pressure or confusion.

There is nothing wrong with generosity. But in strata, generosity must be balanced with governance. That balance is what protects our sector and strengthens its credibility year after year.

Ethical practice is not an obstacle to the festive spirit. It is the very thing that keeps our relationships and our communities on solid ground.