Looking for Support at Home?
Skip the stress - we’ll match you with trusted providers near you. Get your FREE personalised shortlist today!
Looking for Support at Home?
Skip the stress - we’ll match you with trusted providers near you. Get your FREE personalised shortlist today!
on the Monday, February 9, 2026
Choosing a retirement village is one of the most significant decisions for older Australians. It involves balancing lifestyle preferences, financial considerations, and future healthcare needs. With so many options available, knowing what to look for can make the process easier and more rewarding.
This ultimate guide provides practical steps and key considerations to help you select a retirement village that fits your current and future retirement goals.
Before visiting villages, clarify your priorities:
Location: Proximity to family, friends, healthcare, and amenities
Community: Social environment, cultural activities, and resident demographics
Facilities: Fitness centres, swimming pools, gardens, walking paths, libraries, and hobby spaces
Pet Policies: Whether pets are allowed and what types
Future Planning: Access to healthcare or aged care services
Tip: Create a “must-have vs nice-to-have” checklist to focus your search.
Financial planning is essential:
Entry Fees (Ingoing Contribution): Upfront payment for the right to live in the village
Ongoing Fees: Maintenance, services, and amenities
Exit Fees (Deferred Management Fee): Fee payable when leaving the village
Other Costs: Utilities, optional care services, insurance, and personal expenses
Tip: Compare villages not just by price, but by the value and lifestyle they offer.
Consider your current and future health needs:
On-site or visiting medical and allied health services
Emergency call systems and safety monitoring
Personal care packages and access to aged care facilities if required
Tip: Villages with flexible care options allow residents to age in place comfortably.
A personal visit gives insight that brochures cannot:
Tour different unit types and communal areas
Attend an activity or social event to gauge community atmosphere
Speak with residents about their experiences
Observe accessibility, safety features, and overall environment
Tip: Take notes and photos to help compare villages later.
Retirement village contracts can be complex:
Contract Type: Lease, licence, or strata arrangement
Fees and Refunds: Entry, ongoing, and exit fee conditions
Village Rules: Pet policies, renovations, and communal regulations
State Legislation: Your rights and obligations under local retirement village laws
Tip: Have a lawyer or financial adviser review the contract before signing.
Think about how your needs may change over time:
Mobility and accessibility requirements
Cognitive or medical care in the future
Lifestyle preferences as social circles evolve
Options for downsizing further or transitioning to aged care
Tip: Villages with flexible services and co-located aged care facilities offer peace of mind.
After research, visits, and financial planning:
Compare shortlisted villages against your checklist
Discuss the decision with family or advisors
Plan the move, including downsizing, packing, and settling in
Engage with social activities to integrate into the community
Choosing the right retirement village is about more than accommodation - it’s about finding a community that supports your independence, wellbeing, and lifestyle goals. By following this guide, you can confidently select a village that provides comfort, security, and a fulfilling retirement experience.
Find and compare retirement villages based on lifestyle, amenities, location, and services at Retirement Living Online.
