Business models, consumer experiences and regulation of retirement villages
This research looks at the appeal, benefits and disadvantages of living in retirement villages, as well as at the business models employed and how the Australian Government can help the sector to expand.
Full Publication Executive Summary Policy Evidence SummaryThe Policy Evidence Summary, published in December 2022, has as its first recommendation:
a national ombudsman be established to support and advocate for the rights of older people navigating disputes with retirement village operators.
This recommendation supports the efforts of the ACT RVRA in pursuing the establishment of an ACT Ombudsman for the very reasons set out in the report.
Useful contacts
The contact details listed below are current at July 2023 and may change over time.
Access Canberra
Telephone: 13 22 81
Website: accesscanberra.act.gov.au
ACT Health Services Commissioner
The Health Services Commissioner deals with complaints about services for older
people in the ACT, including services provided by Retirement Villages.
Telephone: 6205 2222
Email: human.rights@act.gov.au
Website: hrc.act.gov.au
ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal
Telephone: 6207 1740
Email: tribunal@act.gov.au
Website: acat.act.gov.au
Council on the Ageing ACT (COTA)
Housing Options Advisory Service. Telephone: 6282 3777
Email: contact@cotaact.org.au
Website: cotaact.org.au
Legal Aid ACT
Provides free legal information advice and education.
Telephone: 1300 654 314
Email: legalaid@legalaidact.org.au
Website: legalaidact.org.au
Older Persons ACT Legal Services
Specialist service within Legal Aid ACT. OPALS provides legal help to older people in Canberra.
Telephone: 1800 353 374
Email: opals@legalaidact.org.au
Website: legalaidact.org.au/opals
ACT Law Society
Provides referrals to solicitors specialising in retirement village matters.
Telephone: 6274 0300
Email: mail@actlawsociety.asn.au
Website: actlawsociety.asn.au