Abstract
Around the world, people volunteer their time to manage multi-unit properties. These elected representatives are responsible for managing homes and assets of millions of people. As populations age, increasing proportions of these volunteers are retirees. This article draws on findings from surveys of 1,433 strata title (multi-unit) owners in Australia, and 41 follow-up interviews, to discuss the challenges this group faces in managing their buildings. A significant challenge is presented-the incentive retirees on fixed incomes have to minimize spending-and implications for the quality of the urban environment discussed. The article argues there has been a devolution of responsibility to the "private governments" that manage strata schemes, without sufficient support and training. To address this challenge, and realize the potential benefits afforded by the increasing availability of retired volunteers, increased support is essential to encourage better property management and underpin the good governance of urban areas.
