The Australian aged care and retirement living sectors are currently undergoing substantial change as a result of an ageing population and evolving consumer preferences. Accelerating this change are legislative reforms in the provision of home care services that pave the way for greater consumer choice and improved efficiency. The retirement living sector is well placed to capitalise on these changes through the delivery of home care services in their villages.
Whilst action is being taken by the Government to address care needs of the ageing population, less action has been taken to address the accommodation needs of older Australians. Traditional Australian homes are usually not built to facilitate ageing in place, or require significant modification. In contrast, retirement villages are purpose built homes for older Australians.