Retirement Living

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What accommodation is available?
2. Locations
3. What are the units like?
4. Who operates the units?
5. How much does it cost?
6. Are support services available?
7. Is ongoing care available?
8. Who do I contact if I have a problem?
9. Is there an agreement?
10. Are there any rules and regulations?
11. How do I apply?

What accommodation is available?

Marjorie Nunan Homes offer three separate developments of mainly one-bedroom independent living units. All three sites are located in Brunswick, a popular and convenient inner northern suburb with ready access to health care facilities and other services.

Locations

Marjorie Nunan Court 433-435 Brunswick Road, Brunswick 10 one-bedroom units and two 2-bedroom units

Marjorie Nunan Terrace 475 Brunswick Road, Brunswick 10 one-bedroom units

Marjorie Nunan Gardens 3 Hickford Street, Brunswick 10 one-bedroom units

The units have been built to provide comfortable, affordable independent unit accommodation for elderly persons. Admission is available to both singles and couples in receipt of the full aged pension regardless of belief, background or Masonic affiliation.

What are the units like?

The one-bedroom units are quite spacious at approximately 48m2, while the two 2 bedroom units are approximately 65m2. All units feature a separate bathroom, kitchen, living room, bedroom and built in wardrobes. Residents are required to bring their own refrigerator, although a stove and heater will be provided by Royal Freemasons. All units have shower alcoves in the bathroom and shared laundry is located on both the ground and first floor levels of all buildings with a stainless steel trough, washing machine and dryer. A separate, on-site car parking space is provided at some units.

Who operates the units?

Marjorie Nunan Homes are owned and operated by Royal Freemasons. We currently provide care and accommodation to approximately 1,000 residents and operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The organisation has 10 Independent Living Unit developments, 5 Residential Aged Care facilities, 3 Community Aged Care bases and a Day Therapy Centre, 1 Transition Care Unit and Redmond Park, a premium retirement development in North Carlton.

We have a well-deserved reputation for quality, innovation and leadership within the retirement and aged care sectors.

The three developments were originally built and owned by the Marjorie Nunan Memorial Homes Society Inc. In recognition of the role of the Society and the generosity of the late Marjorie Nunan, we continue to refer to these properties as the Marjorie Nunan Homes.

How much does it cost?

Both couples and single residents pay a monthly fee, significantly below the market rental value for this accommodation. The rate is reduced even further after the receipt of government rent assistance, which is paid to you with your pension. The rent normally increases annually in line with the changes in the Melbourne CPI.

Residents may pay their rent on a monthly basis, either by a direct debit arrangement or by depositing the rent into a special bank account using a deposit book provided by Royal Freemasons. Monthly rent payment is due on the 15th of each month.

Residents are responsible for their own electricity, gas and telephone accounts and for the repair of any appliances they own. Royal Freemasons are responsible for all maintenance costs relating to the building, appliances we provide, your unit and the surrounding grounds. We also pay all rates as well as council and government charges relating to the property.

Residents are not required to pay a bond as security against damage to the property or an ingoing contribution.

Are support services available?

Although no permanent staff are on site, qualified care staff will visit you at least once a year and help you to make the necessary arrangements for your care needs. This may include offering you temporary respite care in one of our residential aged care facilities or, if you are eligible, provide ongoing care to you in your unit on a daily basis as part of our Community Care program. If you ever require assistance, then help is only a phone call away and there is also easy access to local medical and health support should it be required.

Is ongoing care available?

Royal Freemasons currently operates low and high care accommodation facilities, including dementia specific units. Should you require permanent accommodation in a low or high care accommodation facility your application will be given preferential consideration. However, we cannot guarantee the availability of a place.

Who do I contact if I have a problem?

If the issue relates to your care needs or the behaviour of other residents, you should contact our Residential Services Office. If you need assistance with maintenance or have a problem regarding security, you should contact our Property Manager. All contact details will be provided upon admission. We always endeavour to provide residents with a prompt and effective response.

Is there an agreement?

Yes, there is a tenancy agreement for you to sign. This follows the standard format required under the Residential Tenancies Act. This act regulates most terms and conditions relating to your residency. The standard tenancy agreement has been supplemented by a schedule that includes the additional commitments and services offered by Royal Freemasons.

We will also provide you with a copy of a publication by Consumer & Business Affairs Victoria entitled 'Renting - Your Rights and Responsibilities'. This publication contains detailed advice regarding the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants.

Are there any rules and regulations?

Most matters regarding your tenancy are contained in either the tenancy agreement or 'Renting - Your Rights and Responsibilities'. Some of the more important rules are outlined below.

• Alterations to the unit are not to be undertaken without written approval
• Residents are not allowed to have a pet without written approval - permission will normally only be given for cats, birds and fish.
• Restrictions apply regarding overnight visitors
• Residents must keep their unit in a reasonably clean condition
• Residents must respect the peace and privacy of other residents

Residents may terminate the tenancy by giving 28 days notice. Royal Freemasons may terminate the tenancy by giving 90 days notice. Shorter periods may apply in certain circumstances.

How do I apply?

If you are interested in admission to Marjorie Nunan Homes, you should contact our Admissions Officer on (03) 9011 7331. They will provide you with an information package, including the necessary application forms for you to complete. If your application is accepted, we will place you on a waiting list. When a vacancy becomes available, we will contact you to make the necessary arrangements and organise for you to complete a Tenancy Agreement.