As more South Australians explore retirement villages and community living, many discover the process can be both exciting and overwhelming. From legal and financial considerations to lifestyle and emotional changes, knowing where to start can be challenging — especially for those in regional areas or from diverse communities where access to clear, culturally safe information is limited.

The Choices and Successful Transition to Village and Community Living project, delivered by the Catalyst Foundation in collaboration with the South Australian Retirement Villages Residents Association (SARVRA), is helping South Australians make confident, informed decisions about their next chapter. Over the coming nine months, six free community seminars will be held across the state, offering practical and inclusive guidance on the many aspects of transitioning to retirement or community living.

The seminars are built on lived experience and peer learning, providing participants with relatable, down-to-earth insights. Each session explores topics such as legal and financial planning, lifestyle considerations, emotional wellbeing, and residents’ rights. Attendees receive practical tools and checklists to help plan their transition, with opportunities to ask questions in an open, supportive environment.

The first two seminars have now been confirmed:

• Victor Harbor: Monday 25 November, 2:00pm – 3:30pm, Victor Harbor Encounter Centre, 42 Armstrong Road, Victor Harbor
• Salisbury: Sunday 1 December, 12:30pm – 2:00pm, Salisbury Community Hub, Dr Ruby Davy Room, 34 Church Street, Salisbury

Bookings are essential. To reserve a place, email Catalyst Foundation: information@catalystfoundation.com.au or phone (08) 8168 8776.

This project has been funded through a 2024-2025 Positive Ageing Fellowship Grant from Office for Ageing Well, Department of Human Services, Government of South Australia.