Andrew Fraser, Nationals member for Coffs Harbour, expects proposed changes will make moving into a retirement village easier and less stressful for retirees and their families.

Proposed reforms include a standard contract, greater clarity about services and facilities available in retirement villages, and a disclosure statement to be given to potential residents before they sign a contract.

"These reforms will help seniors looking at moving into a retirement village in the Coffs Harbour electorate by clearly outlining their rights and responsibilities before they sign a contract," said Mr Fraser. He also wants prospective residents to be able to compare costs and conditions between villages before they commit.

An expert group of village residents, operators and legal professionals were involved in drafting the documents said Mr Fraser.

“The standard contract and disclosure documents will help to reduce the confusion and complexity that currently exists for prospective residents," he said. "Moving into a retirement village is a major life decision.”

Subject to the outcome of the consultation, Fraser expects all retirement villages will be using the standard contract by September this year.

The draft Retirement Villages Amendment (Standard Contract) Regulation 2013 is available from fairtrading.nsw.gov.au.