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The Retirement Villages' Residents’ Council believes reforms are needed that ensure sustainability and fairness – protecting resident choice and assets while safeguarding the long-term viability of all kinds of villages. The Council says its engagement with residents shows that the vast majority are happy with village life, but improvements are needed to ensure fairness and consistency across the sector. Villages serve more than 53,000 New Zealanders, ranging from large listed companies to small rural charitable facilities. With an ageing population, the importance of getting the balance right is crucial. The Council has been engaging with residents to understand their needs via research meetings and village visits. Key Council proposals include: Occupation Rights Agreements (ORAs): Mandatory capital repayment within six months of ORA termination for new contracts. Interest paid on amounts owing after three months for existing contracts. For all contracts: cessation of weekly fees once a resident vacates Operators responsible for ensuring residents can move to care (including interest-free loans and fast payouts if necessary). Later repayment only if a village faces genuine financial hardship. Standardised ORAs: Introduction of a basic ORA across all operators to enable easier comparison and informed decision-making. No retrospective changes to existing ORAs, recognising the contractual commitments already made. Complaints Scheme: A fair, accessible and independent complaints scheme, funded by operators, to protect residents. The Council has worked closely with the Retirement Commissioner’s investigation and broadly supports its proposed scheme. Other points: Fixtures and fittings: “You own it – you fix it.” Capital gains and losses: if residents don’t share in gains, they should not share in losses. These changes will strengthen protections for residents, provide clarity and consistency across the sector, and ensure villages can continue to meet the diverse needs of New Zealand’s growing ageing population.