Tomorrow (24th Feb) a debate is scheduled in the Victorian Parliament for an enquiry into retirement villages.
The movement, supported by Council of the Ageing (COTA Vic) and Residents of Retirement Villages Victoria (RRVV) states that village residents face numerous problems but these problems are often hidden from public view.
They say internal dispute resolution is failing residents and that an ombudsman is needed. The major complaints:
Complexity of contracts
unfair fees inadequate repairs and maintenance
lack of financial accountability and for poor financial management
lack of staff training and qualifications
bullying and intimidation by management and other residents
property sale delays and costs
Consumer Action, a government funded legal aid unit, Stacey on is that the ombudsman could be government run for an industry funded scheme.
