Residents’ voices in retirement villages remain strong across three states, with new and returning leadership announced in NSW, Queensland and WA.

In New South Wales, Roger Pallant has been appointed President of the Retirement Village Residents Association (RVRA) at its AGM on 25 September. Roger, who previously served as Vice President, succeeds Craig Bennett, who had led the association since 2021. Craig will continue to support the organisation as Immediate Past President, providing continuity and guidance.

Roger has been a driving force behind the RVRA’s advocacy, most notably the Ageing Without Fear survey conducted in 2023 across 120 villages and 1,259 residents. He helped take the findings to sector stakeholders, leading to a joint Statement of Respect between the RVRA , the NSW Ageing & Disability Commission, and the Property Council of Australia’s Retirement Living Council.

Meanwhile in Queensland, Judy Mayfield has been re-elected President of the Association of Residents of Qld Retirement Villages (ARQRV) – a role she has now held for 11 years. With a background in community services and supported accommodation, Judy said the year ahead looked strong, with four new committee members joining and Executive Director Jodie Gorrell moving to a four-day role to strengthen the association’s operations.

“The actual committee will continue to be made up of people who live in a retirement village but Jodie’s position will ensure the on-going sustainability of the association,” Judy said.

“I am feeling excited about the coming year and more confident about the role of ARQRV in the future.” 

In Western Australia, Hank de Smit was re-elected as President of Village Retirement WA at its AGM in August.