Aged Rights Advocacy Service (ARAS) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that has supported older people in South Australia since 1990.

ARAS is funded by the Retirement Villages Unit within Office for Ageing Well to provide free advocacy, education, and information to retirement village residents, helping them understand their rights and navigate concerns in line with the Retirement Villages Act 2016 and Retirement Villages Regulations 2017.

How ARAS can help

ARAS can assist residents with a range of issues, including:

  • ongoing and exit fees
  • maintenance and repairs
  • understanding contracts
  • resolving disputes with management or neighbours
  • navigating the complaints process.

Advocacy and support services

ARAS Advocates can support residents by:

  • raising concerns with retirement village management
  • assisting with mediation through the Retirement Villages Unit
  • helping with applications to the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT)
  • providing guidance for SACAT hearings.

For those who prefer to advocate for themselves, ARAS can support residents prepare by outlining options and strategies. While ARAS Advocates are not lawyers, they have in-depth knowledge of the legislation and can refer residents to legal services if needed.

Education and prevention of abuse of older people

Through funding from the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care via the National Aged Care Advocacy Program (OPAN), ARAS also offers education on elder abuse prevention. Retirement village residents receiving home care services through My Aged Care can also access information about their aged care rights.

Additionally, ARAS runs the Safeguards for Living a Positive Life program, supported by Office for Ageing Well, Department of Human Services. More details about this program are available on the ARAS website under Safeguards for Ageing Well.

Regional support offices

ARAS has regional offices in Berri, Nuriootpa, and Victor Harbor, available by appointment:

  • Nuriootpa: 1 First Street, Nuriootpa SA 5355
  • Berri: 21 Denny Street, Berri SA 5343
  • Victor Harbor: 9/46-52 Ocean Street, Victor Harbor SA 5211.

Get in touch

To learn more about retirement village advocacy and how ARAS can assist, visit the ARAS website to watch an informational video.

To request an education session for your retirement village, contact ARAS at (08) 8232 5377 or send an email.