Operators could face fines of up to $35,000 for issues such as breaching residents’ contracts, failing to disclose information and having dishonesty charges within the last five years under changes to the Retirement Villages Act that kicked in on 1 January.
On-the-spot fines of $210 can also be issued, while code of conduct breaches can result in a $2,500 fine.
The changes also include a statutory 18-month buyback scheme.
