Types of Retirement Villages in Australia

1. Independent Living Villages

These are the most common type of retirement community, designed for active seniors who can live independently but want access to community amenities and security.
Accommodation Types:

• Self-contained villas, semi-detached units or high-rise apartments Retirement villages
• Living options range from one to four bedrooms within a low, high or medium rise complex, terrace housing, stand-alone Retirement Villages - Aged Care Guide homes
• Modern townhouses and garden apartments
• Luxury penthouses in premium developments

Key Features:

• Age restriction (typically 55+ or 60+)
• Maintenance-free living
• 24/7 security systems and emergency call systems
• Community facilities and social programs

2. Lifestyle Communities (Over 55s)

An over 55 lifestyle village typically operates as a normal residential development with shared facilities such as tennis courts, BBQ areas, a clubhouse, swimming pool and lawn bowl green and more. 

Characteristics:

• Less restrictive than traditional retirement villages
• Often allow younger partners and occasional guests
• Focus on active, resort-style living
• May have fewer ongoing care services

3. Serviced Apartments/Assisted Living

Serviced apartments with some daily living assistance cater to residents who need additional support while maintaining independence.
Services Include:

• Housekeeping and laundry services
• Meal preparation options
• Personal care assistance
• Medication management
• Transport services

4. Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

These villages offer multiple levels of care on one campus, allowing residents to age in place. Often referred to as co-located communities.
Progressive Care Levels:

• Independent living units
• Assisted living apartments
• Residential aged care facilities
• Dementia-specific care & palliative care units

Premium Amenities and Facilities

Recreation and Wellness Facilities

Amenities include Swimming Pool, Bowling Green, Billiards Table, Cinematic Viewing Rooms
Common Amenities Include:

• Swimming pools and spas - Often heated, with aqua aerobics programs
• Fully equipped gyms - With senior-friendly equipment and fitness classes
• Lawn bowling greens - Traditional and popular social activity
• Tennis courts - Both hard court and synthetic grass options
• Golf facilities - Putting greens, driving ranges, or full 9/18-hole courses
• Walking and cycling tracks - Landscaped paths throughout the village
• Libraries - Libraries with book clubs and reading groups

Social and Community Spaces

Common areas to be shared by residents - including dining, community and games rooms, library and craft rooms

• Community centres and clubhouses - Community Centre / Clubhouse
• Multi-purpose halls - For events, dances, and celebrations
• Arts and crafts studios - Pottery wheels, painting studios, woodworking shops
• Computer and internet lounges
• Games rooms - Cards, chess, mahjong facilities
• Theatre and cinema rooms - Cinematic Viewing Room 

Dining and Entertainment

• Restaurant-style dining rooms - Professional chefs and varied menus
• Cafés and bistros - Café for casual dining
• Alfresco Dining Area and Barbecue Facilities
• Private dining rooms - For family celebrations
• Convenience Store / Kiosk / Village Store 

Health and Wellness Services

Wellness centre and medical rooms are increasingly common.

• On-site medical centres - GPs, nurses, allied health professionals
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation - Essential for active aging
• Hairdressing and beauty salons 
• Wellness and spa treatments
• Podiatry and other specialist services

 

Specialized Village Types

Resort-Style Retirement Villages

Focus on luxury amenities and hotel-like services, often located in scenic coastal or rural settings.

Urban High-Rise Communities
Located in city centres, offering apartment-style living with easy access to cultural attractions, shopping, and public transport.

Rural and Semi-Rural Villages
Situated in country towns or on the outskirts of cities, offering larger homes, extensive gardens, and a more relaxed pace of life.
Faith-Based Communities
Operated by religious organizations, incorporating spiritual elements and values-based care.
Cultural and Ethnic-Specific Villages
Designed for specific cultural communities, with appropriate cuisine, activities, and language support.

Current Industry Trends (2024-2025)
The dramatic increase in Australians over 65 is driving demand The Future of Australian Retirement Villages: 4 Key Trends for Managers in 2024 | FHG Furniture for retirement village accommodation. Key trends include:

• Sustainability Focus - 4 Star Green Star Design 
• Technology Integration - Smart home features, telehealth capabilities
• Wellness-Centered Design - Wellness centre and activities hub
• Universal Design - Livable Housing Australia Gold accreditation
• Pet-Friendly Policies - Recognising the importance of companion animals