Tomorrow (24 Feb) a debate is scheduled in the Victorian Parliament for an enquiry into retirement villages. 

 

The movement, supported by Council of the Ageing (COTA Vic) and Residents of Retirement Villages Victoria (RRVV) states that village residents face ‘numerous problems but these problems are often hidden from public view’.

They say internal dispute resolution is failing residents and that an ombudsman is needed. The major complaints:

·         complexity of contracts

·         unfair fees

·         inadequate repairs and maintenance

·         lack of financial accountability and for poor financial management

·         lack of staff training and qualifications

·         bullying and intimidation by management and other residents

·         property sale delays and costs

Consumer Action, a government funded legal aid unit, states that the ombudsman could be government run or an industry funded scheme.