QUESTIONS?
INDEPENDENT LIVING
Who owns and manages the villages?
The Lutheran Church of Australia – Victorian District owns both the Hamilton Village site and the Eventide Lutheran Homes site. Both sites are managed by Eventide Lutheran Homes and Hamilton Village CEO and board. The marketing manager, maintenance and administration staff provide supporting roles.
How can I be sure that the standard of the village and support services provided will not diminish over time?
One of the main benefits of a licence to reside, as opposed to other types of security of tenure, is that Eventide Lutheran Homes retains ownership and management of the village and, therefore, a prime interest in ensuring that the reputation of the village’s facilities and services are always maintained at the highest possible standard.
How will I know when it is the right time to move?
If you are thinking about the desire to have a home that is low maintenance, provides good security, has access to a large array of facilities and services, and lets you enjoy your friends and the activities you choose to enjoy in your retirement, then retirement living is a solution you should consider. So many new residents in retirement villages across the country say they wish they had made the move sooner.
Are there any restrictions on the amount of time that residents can spend away from the village?
The only requirement is that residents advise village management of the intended period of absence and any changes to that period that may occur.
One of the many advantages of living in a retirement village is that you can holiday or travel for any length of time without worrying about the maintenance and security of your home. This is taken care of, so you can enjoy your leisure time with peace of mind.
Can I still do some gardening?
Yes, if you so desire. However, you will need to maintain the garden to a standard in keeping with the rest of the village gardens. Our friendly gardener will maintain all common areas of the village gardens and will be available to provide limited assistance and advice to you on a fee-for-service basis.
How do I apply for residence in the village?
Initially, this simply involves filling in the waitlist application for your selected unit size and style to have your name on the waitlist. Contact the marketing manager to arrange an appointment to view a range of units. We suggest you discuss our documentation with a solicitor of your choice prior to signing and exchanging contracts.
When can I take up residence?
After the contribution amount is paid in full unless prior special arrangements are made with the CEO.
Rental agreements are occasionally offered on approval by the CEO.
Can I make improvements to the unit?
Improvements must first be approved by the CEO. These costs are non-refundable. On termination of your licence, items purchased by you, such as awnings, may be removed and the unit restored to its original condition.
What is the position regarding pets?
Small house animals or caged birds may be permitted on approval by the CEO at the Hamilton Village site only. Permission to keep a pet may be revoked if the pet disturbs other residents or causes damage to the village.
What community facilities are provided?
A community centre is located at Unit 16, Hamilton Village. It includes a meeting and games area, dining facilities, a lounge area, a computer kiosk with free internet, a kitchenette and toilet facilities. A large workshed with tools, a kitchen, a toilet and BBQ facilities is situated at Hamilton Village. Eventide has a community room for happy hour, morning teas, movies and knit and natter.
Is my long-term occupancy at the village secure?
Yes, your long-term occupancy is secure under your residence contract and the Retirement Village Act 1986, No 126.
What are the maintenance charges and other costs?
Residents pay a fortnightly amount known as the service fee or maintenance fee to cover their share of items, such as council and water rates, insurance (other than contents insurance), electricity for the common areas, and maintenance of the units, grounds and shared facilities. Personal expenditure items for independent living unit residents include electricity, gas, telephone, internet, pay TV and contents insurance. The resident is expected to arrange their own connections.
What system does the village have for resolving disputes?
The dispute resolution process is a documented Eventide Lutheran Homes and Hamilton Village policy. The policy is available from Administration and is provided to incoming residents at the admission appointment.
We were very thankful that we were able to get a unit as fast as we did. It gave us and our family peace of mind. The wonderful community here is welcoming and friendly. Our unit gives us security and freedom to continue our independent lives. Our family is forever grateful.
