Important changes to Western Australia's retirement village laws have begun rolling out, with a stronger focus on residents' rights, financial security and involvement in decision-making.
Consumer Protection will implement the reforms in five stages over the next two years, giving residents and operators time to understand and adjust to the new requirements.
One of the biggest changes took effect on 1 September 2026. Retirement village operators must now pay exit entitlements and complete buybacks of strata-titled properties within 12 months of a resident moving out, unless an earlier date applies.
In exceptional circumstances, operators can apply to the Commissioner for an extension of, or exemption from, these requirements.
For many residents and their families, these funds are needed to help pay for their next living arrangement, so the new timeframe provides greater certainty and reduces lengthy delays.
The reforms will also help residents transitioning into aged care. Eligible residents can
request that up to 85 per cent of their unpaid exit entitlement be paid directly towards aged care accommodation costs, helping to ease financial pressures during a significant life change.
This request can be made before moving into aged care, or within 60 days of entering a facility.
Residents will also have more input into how their village is run. Operators will be required to consult residents before finalising annual budgets, giving them a greater say in decisions that affect their community.
New Rules of Conduct will set clear expectations for operators, staff and residents. Stronger village closure laws will also require operators to have approved plans in place before closing a village, providing added protection for residents and their families.
The next stage of reforms begins on 1 December 2026 and includes new rules covering village modifications, reinstatement and renovation of units and property condition reports.
Future stages will introduce a public retirement village register, additional disclosure requirements and stronger rules around capital works expenses.
These reforms are the result of extensive consultation and represent an important step towards a fairer, more transparent retirement village sector.
They will deliver real benefits for consumers, and our approach will be to support compliance through education and guidance, while also taking enforcement action where necessary.
Consumer Protection has developed a wide range of resources to help residents understand the changes. Information, guidance and supporting material is available at: www.consumerprotection.wa.gov.au/retirement-village-law-reforms.