The Retirement Living Council has released an eight-point plan a meeting in Melbourne between over 30 operators and retirement village resident association leaders from around Australia.

The final agreement between the groups includes a commitment to deliver high standards; simpler information about costs and contracts; and an independent body to resolve disputes.

This would happen by making accreditation mandatory for village operators, ensuring that contracts are written in clear, simple language and providing better alternatives for any issues between residents and managers to be solved.

It’s good news for residents and village staff – with the recent media coverage by Fairfax and Four Corners, many in the industry have been calling for changes to ensure everyone who chooses to live in a village receives fair treatment and has their voice heard.

We’ll keep you posted on any changes that may take place as a result of the plan’s release.