Life at Rivervue
We have collated some of our most frequently asked questions about life at Rivervue. While we hope you find this information interesting and informative, it is not intended to be a substitute for your legal documentation which will properly determine all of your rights and obligations and which will be provided upon request at Rivervue.
When is the right time to move into a Retirement Village?
Each new resident has their own story, the one resounding comment we hear is "I wish I'd done this years earlier'.
The choice is often a practical one such as changing circumstances in your health or home. The garden is too big, the maintenance too much, issues with neighbours or fears of security are themes we hear often.
Many of our residents at Rivervue have moved into the Village to live with people of their own age and background.
We have a number of residents who are still in full time work, but who take advantage of the facility and amenity at Rivervue while they’re young.
Others are in part time work or are starting to reduce their hours in preparation for the adventure of retirement. This transition to retirement can take an extended period of time, and making the decision to move sooner rather than later can make things even easier when the time comes.
Can we have family or friends to stay with us?
Generally you are more than welcome to have family & friends stay with you. If your friends or family are staying for an extended period you will need to discuss this with the Village Manager.
For the protection of all our Residents, and as part of our Health & Safety procedures and Evacuation processes, guests are logged with Rivervue administration.
What is accreditation?
The Lifemark Village Scheme is the Retirement Industry accreditation authority. Villages that receive Lifemark certification will have met 26 rigorous standards, ensuring residents enjoy a quality village experience.
The Lifemark Village Scheme standards have been devised to ensure that all people in our communities live in ethically managed villages, and enjoy a comfortable and safe lifestyle. Lifemark also provides a strong platform for operators to assure prospective and existing residents that they are committed to standards that go well beyond what the law requires.
Rivervue & Applewood have both received accreditation by The Lifemark Village Scheme.
Am I responsible for council rates at Rivervue?
Rivervue Residents are responsible for payment of their own rates, which are billed directly from Moonee Valley Council.
Water is billed directly to the Resident from City West Water.
Utilities such as phone, Internet and electricity are set out in your monthly account and run off our embedded networks.
Eligible residents can apply for reductions in their electricity bill via the Non-Mains Electricity Concession rebate scheme
What will it cost for me to move into Rivervue?
In addition to the purchase price of your new home you will be required to pay for:
- Removalists
- Connection fees
- Optional connections such as Internet
- Legal costs
All charges are disclosed on our Fact Sheets which you will be given as part of your visit to the Village.
What make Rivervue secure?
Rivervue is a securely fenced and gated community. There is also a nurse call system within each home and our Community Centre. Residents who require assistance for medical, personal or security reasons can use this service to speak directly to registered nurses who are able to escalate issues as required.
Our Village staff are onsite six days a week during office hours, and after dark we have a visiting security patrol.
Will I own my home at Rivervue?
Under the Retirement Village Act (RVA) 1986 there are a number of ways in which ownership can be held.
Examples leasehold, strata , loan licence, Company Share etc.
Click here for a copy of the Act.
Rivervue is a lease hold Village. Residents sign into a 99 year lease, whereby the right to reside is granted for a period of 99 years.
As there is no transfer of title, no Stamp Duty is payable, and security of tenure is provided by means of the Residence and Management Contract, which is regulated by the Act.
Can we bring our pet?
Rivervue is a pet-friendly Village; we understand the benefits of pet ownership, and have a soft spot for all our furry friends.
A small dog or cat are very welcome at Rivervue . Each circumstance is unique and we suggest that you discuss your pet with our Village Manager to ensure you understand the Pet Policy at Rivervue.
Can family & friends use the Village facilities?
Visiting friends and family are welcome at Rivervue. We are happy for guests to use the facilities providing they acknowledge the rules and regulations and are also accompanied by a Resident at all times.
Is there a monthly fee?
Rivervue Residents pay a monthly Service Fee and Sinking Fund contribution.
Service fees provides for the operation of the Village and covers all expenses you would see under an Owners' Corporation. Items like public liability insurances, gardening, maintenance, contracts for essential services, monitoring of the Emergency Call System, the costs of a Village Manager and other staff are included in the service fee.
The Sinking Fund Contribution is used to pay for, among other things, improvements to the Village, including maintenance, repairs, replacements, renovations, additions, variations and upgrading to the Village. This fund ensures that the current high standard of finish and presentation is maintained for many years to come.
Is there a Residents’ Committee at Rivervue?
Our Residents Committee is currently comprised of seven members.
These Residents represent the interests of the wider Resident population in meetings with Rivervue Management and work tirelessly on their behalf to introduce programs, or events that better the community.
The Rivervue Residents committee has just initiated a Welfare Program to support those Residents who may require some assistance.
Rivervue is a growing Community that cares for each other, and the Residents' Committee have played a part in developing a caring approach to community living.
