Retirement village residents have certain rights and obligations. Villages will also have specific rules known as village rules. This page outlines these general rights and obligations, village rules, and what happens if there is a of change of operator.
Village operators must comply with retirement village laws and conduct rules which cover:
- information a prospective resident should be given
- standard behaviour expected from the operator and staff
- promotion and sale of villages and units
- general operation of villages.
Villages also have their own day to day rules, known as village rules. These rules are not law, but your residence contract may require you to abide by them.
Residents' rights
You have the right to:
Privacy
- exercise self-reliance and autonomy in your personal, domestic and financial affairs
- have your peace, comfort and privacy respected
- decide what possessions to have in your premises
Accommodation and services
- live in a safe and secure village
- live in an environment that is free from harassment or intimidation
- have access to any services, health care and facilities listed in the contract
- have requests for repairs and maintenance responded to within a reasonable time
Information and consultation
- be a part of residents’ committee
- have input into financial decision making
- have input into any major changes to services, rules or fees
- access any information about you held by the operator
- appoint someone to receive notices and documents on your behalf e.g. family member or enduring power of attorney.
Dispute resolution
- have access to formal dispute resolution process.
Exit entitlements
- payment of a portion of your original ingoing contribution when you leave as stated in your contract.
Resident responsibilities
You also have obligations to:
Respect others
- follow resident conduct rules
- make sure anybody you invite into the village follows the rules.
Fees and charges
- pay ongoing fees and charges as outlined in your contract.
Village rules
- follow the village rules
- make sure anybody you invite into the village follows the rules
Care of property
- not intentionally or recklessly cause property damage or injure anyone
- look after your own unit and any gardens or balcony listed on your contract
- report any maintenance or safety issues to the operator
Leaving notice
- provide the required notice as outlined in your contract when you plan to leave the village.
Other rights when things change in a village
New partners
Check your contract and village rules about new partners. Some rules may allow a new partner to live with you temporarily or permanently.
Village operator changes
Retirement village residents cannot be evicted if a retirement village changes hands. New village owners are bound by any existing contracts.
Operator insolvency
It is strongly recommended you get legal advice to understand your rights if the village operator becomes insolvent.
See more under Advice for tenants on Closing a retirement village.
These rights and obligations are set out in the:
- Retirement Villages Act 1992
- Retirement Villages Regulations 2026
- in your contract.