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Understanding Facility Management in Brisbane

Unlock the secrets of effective facility management in Brisbane! Discover the distinct roles of Facility Managers, Body Corporate Managers, and Property Managers, and learn how professional Facility Managers can save your building from compliance risks, rising costs, and asset decline.

Roles of Facility Managers, Body Corporate Managers, and Property Managers

Managing a multi-unit residential complex, commercial building, or strata-titled property in Brisbane involves multiple roles, each with distinct responsibilities. However, many property owners and committees struggle to differentiate between Facility Managers, Building Managers, Body Corporate Managers, and Property Managers—leading to inefficiencies and miscommunication.

Without a structured approach to facility management, buildings face compliance risks, rising costs, and a decline in asset value. This guide will help clarify these roles and explain why professional Facility Managers (FMs) are becoming essential for effective property management.

What is a Facility Manager (FM)?

A Facility Manager is responsible for the strategic and operational management of a building to ensure it runs efficiently. According to the Facilities Management Good Practice Guide, FMs oversee building maintenance, risk management, compliance, and sustainability initiatives to improve the longevity and efficiency of facilities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Maintenance & Asset Management – Scheduling preventive maintenance to avoid costly repairs.
  • Compliance & Safety – Ensuring buildings meet WHS, fire safety, and regulatory requirements.
  • Sustainability & Efficiency – Managing energy-saving initiatives, water conservation, and waste reduction programs.
  • Contractor & Budget Management – Overseeing trade services and optimising operational costs.

💡Example: A Facility Manager in Brisbane ensures a high-rise residential complex remains compliant with safety regulations, reduces energy costs through solar initiatives, and streamlines maintenance to prevent disruptions.

What is a Body Corporate Manager?

A Body Corporate Manager (BCM) is responsible for the administrative and financial management of a strata scheme, but does not handle physical maintenance.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Managing levies & sinking/admin funds.
  • Organising AGMs & handling committee meetings.
  • Ensuring compliance with Queensland’s Body Corporate & Community Management (BCCM) Act.
  • Advising on legal and by-law matters.

💡Example: A BCM ensures that the body corporate’s financial records and insurance policies are up to date but does not handle maintenance issues directly.

What is a Property Manager?

A Property Manager works with individual lot owners and tenants to manage leasing, rent collection, and tenancy agreements. Unlike an FM or BCM, a Property Manager focuses on residential leasing rather than building operations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Managing tenant relationships and lease agreements.
  • Coordinating rental property maintenance (inside the unit only).
  • Ensuring rent is collected and legal requirements are met.

💡Example: A Property Manager ensures an apartment is leased and maintains communication with the tenant regarding rent payments and minor repairs inside the unit.

Why Facility Management is Becoming More Essential in Brisbane

With over 16% of Australians living in strata properties (Australasian Strata Insights Report, 2022), professional facilities management is becoming increasingly critical. Buildings that lack structured facility management often experience:

  • Higher maintenance costs due to reactive repairs.
  • Increased insurance premiums from compliance failures.
  • Poor tenant retention and declining property values.

How an FM Adds Value to Your Property:

  • Cost Efficiency – Preventative maintenance reduces unexpected repair bills.
  • Operational Streamlining – FMs coordinate contractors, ensuring high-quality work.
  • Asset Longevity – Regular maintenance and energy-efficient upgrades enhance long-term value.
  • Risk Management – Ensures WHS compliance and minimises liability risks.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Facility Management for Your Property

Each management role plays a distinct part in maintaining a property, but only a Facility Manager takes a holistic approach to operational efficiency, compliance, and long-term asset value.

At Baker FM, we specialise in comprehensive facility management solutions for Brisbane body corporates, strata committees, and commercial property owners.

💡Want to optimise your building’s operations? Contact Baker FM today to see how we can help.


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