NEW INFORMATION GUIDE TO HELP RETIREES DECIDE ABOUT VILLAGE LIVING

Queensland retirees are ‘Easing into village life’ with the help of a new information guide, says Fair Trading Minister Margaret Keech

The free guide from the Office of Fair Trading tells retirees all they need to know about retirement village living.

“The decision to move into a retirement village is an exciting one that can involve significant lifestyle change and considerable financial commitment,” Mrs Keech said.

“Easing into village life is an easy-to-use reference designed to help retirees understand everything about retirement village life from contracts and financial contributions to their rights if they decide to leave.

“The guide provides a plain English explanation of the laws governing retirement villages including recent changes to the Retirement Villages Act 1999 which give greater protection to the rights of village residents.

“The guide is a must for anyone considering moving into a retirement village. It will help ensure your decision is an informed one.”

The guide features topics such as:

• what is a retirement village

• things to consider before deciding to live in a retirement village

• shopping around for the most suitable retirement village

• options after signing the contract

• associated costs and charges

• dispute resolution; and

• options when residents decide to leave the village.

It also includes frequently asked questions, a checklist for making the right decision and a list of useful contacts.

Easing into village life can be downloaded from the Office of Fair Trading website at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au or get a hard copy mailed out by calling 13 13 04.

Media enquiries: Peter McCarthy on 322 51005 or Jane Dargaville (OFT) on 311 90334