QLD Govt launches retirement village comparison site using mandatory operator data

The Queensland Government has implemented a new website that will allow seniors to quickly compare retirement villages in the state.

The website uses mandatory Village Comparison Documents provided by Queensland’s 330 retirement village operators. According to Minister for Communities and Housing Leeanne Enoch (pictured), the site provides “greater security and certainty” for seniors looking to move into retirement living.

“Our new website provides access to this information for seniors and their families in an accessible, easily digestible format. It lets users compare services, facilities and location advantages such as distance to shops, hospitals and public transport options.

“It provides some guidance on the ongoing price range for accommodation units and some examples of cost scenarios. It makes the job of narrowing down options a whole lot easier and quicker for seniors and their families,” she said.

The site does not give information on fees and charges, advising seniors instead to contact villages individually, as well as urging them to obtain independent legal and financial advice before signing.

“The safeguards we introduced with the amendment of the Retirement Villages Act 2019 include improved pre-contractual disclosure allowing prospective residents to make better-informed decisions and giving them more time to get advice, improved behavioural standards for residents and operators and time limits to enable resident certainty around the payment of exit entitlements,” said Ms Enoch.