The Secretary of the Department of Lands and Physical Planning, Hon. Benjamin Samson, recently provided a comprehensive overview of the steps taken towards implementing the new Strata Title Laws.
The Strata Title Laws will provide significant opportunities for investment and employment, broadening the tax income for state and municipal authorities.
Samson outlined the preparation stages, anticipated benefits, and collaborative efforts needed from various sectors to ensure successful implementation.
“This legislation will enhance access to the real estate market, creating a new industry for investment and employment,” Samson explained, calling on finance institutions, property developers, and the business community to collaborate closely with the government.
The secretary also introduced three principal laws: the Strata Title Bill, the Strata Title Management Bill, and the Registration Amendment Bill.
Samson emphasized the importance of long-term planning, urging developers and planners to consider impacts 100 years into the future.
“This is a replacement of what we've done and what we have now in legislation. We are moving at full speed, leveraging technology to automate all our business processes,” Samson stated.
He acknowledged the support from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Lands and Physical Planning, Hon. John Rosso, highlighting the Department’s commitment to modernizing its operations.
Samson said these laws need integration with existing legislation, such as the Land Act 1996, Physical Planning Act, and Building Act, to facilitate seamless implementation. Extensive consultations began in 2019, and by 2021, the National Executive Council (NEC) had approved the new regulations.
The secretary said the new laws would enable the development of integrated projects, featuring residential, commercial, and community services like schools and medical centers, thereby fostering holistic urban growth.
He also appealed to professional bodies in the building and construction industry to familiarize themselves with the new requirements and ensure compliance.
“We invite applications for Strata Title developments across the country. We have established a working relationship with the National Capital District Commission (NCC) to streamline the application process,” he added.
The Secretary emphasized the importance of good dialogue and feedback during the initial stages to identify and address any issues.
Samson acknowledged the technical team and thanked the Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce and Industry (POMCCI) for the platform to share this critical information.
He highlighted the potential of the new Strata Title Laws to transform the real estate sector in Port Moresby and beyond, encouraging businesses to engage actively in the implementation process.
The breakfast meeting, hosted by POMCCI on July 11 at the Lamana Hotel, provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to ask questions and receive direct responses from the presenters.
The next breakfast meeting is scheduled for August 1 at the Lamana Hotel, where NCDC City Manager Ravu Frank will discuss plans to improve roads, education, health, and other services.
To reserve a seat for the upcoming event, interested parties can contact Idau at 7200 0000 or email frontdesk@pomcci.com. The cost is K100 for members and K125 for non-members.
