A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5427]

The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5421]

The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134974]

Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]

The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152125]

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370900]

The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150499]

Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

Aged Care

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Already flush with scores of intended sizeable aged care and retirement living developments, Brisbane stands to gain another two post their lodgement with council last week.

More impressive of the two from a design aesthetic is ThomsonAdsett's design for 193-195 Lutwyche Road. The Windsor development is being backed by Denmac Nominees Pty Ltd and includes 177 dwellings, split between 98 retirement aged care rooms and 79 independent living units.

Ancillary aspects of the proposal include 179 basement car parks plus 1,351 square metres of space dedicated toward retail, cafe, and health care uses. An entire communal level and rooftop terrace form the amenities aspect of the proposal.

Located opposite Karuna Hospice Services long established Windsor campus, 193-195 Lutwyche Road at 12 levels would comfortably outsize any existing development in the vicinity.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image59_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Greenery forms an integral part of the project. Planning image: ThomsonAdsett"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="230" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image59_5.jpg?itok=-vE1r0nZ" title="Greenery forms an integral part of the project. Planning image: ThomsonAdsett" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Greenery forms an integral part of the project. Planning image: ThomsonAdsett</figcaption></figure>Meanwhile, The Ethnic Communities' Council of Qld Ltd is supporting a development application in nearby Indooroopilly. The existing Berlasco Court residential care facility onsite is due for an overhaul by way of a seven level extension designed by Paynter Dixon.

Catering for fully dependent individuals, 142-148 Central Avenue has the ability to significantly increase to the number persons that can be accommodated onsite. This would be a realisation of additional residential aged care bed licences granted to the operator, combined with a Federal Government capital grant to facilitate the redevelopment.

The residential care facility aspect of the proposal sees 115 beds in the mix, with 18 dwellings for supported living also included. 53 car parking spaces and 2,250 square metres of communal space are also present, with the bulk of the communal space at ground level.

On the design, Paynter Dixon states "The intent is that the building embraces its surroundings with a noninstitutional and residential aesthetic to resonate with the local community as well as its occupants and staff.

The material palette takes inspiration from the local vernacular of low set Queenslander style dwellings juxtaposed with multi story residential and commercial developments. A blend of new and old Brisbane."

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image61_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Berlasco Court. Planning image: Paynter Dixon"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="336" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image61_3.jpg?itok=b57D09ct" title="A new Berlasco Court. Planning image: Paynter Dixon" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Berlasco Court. Planning image: Paynter Dixon</figcaption></figure>The arrival of the Windsor and Indooroopilly applications is against a backdrop of Brisbane City Council <a href="https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/community-safety/community-support/seniors/retirement-aged-care">amending its city planning framework</a> in order to offer a more streamlined approach to building, extending or upgrading aged care facilities and retirement facilities.

Council's aim in part is to realise new facilities in diversified locations across Brisbane. Developers for their part have come to the party as evidenced by the strong number of aged care / retirement living proposals appearing across Brisbane.

One of 2018's largest announced projects is Lendlease's partnership with Brisbane Racing Club to create a retirement and aged care precinct within Doomben Racecourse. Lendlease intends to realise 300 independent living units and 108 aged care beds across staged development.

Also on the agenda are sizeable projects in Woolloongabba, Mitchelton, Nundah, Toowong, Newmarket and Carina Heights that are capable of adding thousands of new aged care and retirement living dwellings.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image70_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A selection of forthcoming aged care / retirement living developments across Brisbane"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="835" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image70_10.jpg?itok=nw-PNf0q" title="A selection of forthcoming aged care / retirement living developments across Brisbane" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A selection of forthcoming aged care / retirement living developments across Brisbane</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Doubling up for Brisbane's already robust aged care development pipeline

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Aged care provider Benetas is approaching an outcome for its Doncaster Road residential aged care and retirement village facility.

Next week Manningham City Council will provide judgement on the development which in part reaches eight levels. Council internal planners are recommending that the application be supported, subject to conditions, but for the most the built form has been green lighted.

During 2016 the 6,317 square metre site was secured by the aged care provider, outpointing apartment developers along the way. At that point a five-level aged care facility was expected to replace the current Papa Rich Malaysian restaurant onsite.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image42_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Doncaster Road frontage. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="315" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image42_5.jpg?itok=ZzMSo8EZ" title="Doncaster Road frontage. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Doncaster Road frontage. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure>Fronting both Doncaster Road and Carawatha Road, the proposal is effectively split into wings. A five-storey residential aged care segment fronts Doncaster Road and consists of 128 lodging rooms whilst the taller part six, part eight-storey retirement village to Carawatha Road.

74 independent living units are slated within the taller wing, split between 8 single bedroom, 54 dual bedroom and 9 triple bedroom apartments. Internals for these living spaces range between 63 square metres and 134 square metres.

Basement parking accommodates 161 vehicles with ground floor retail and restaurant areas summing to 489 square metres.

Communal facilities across the development include an internal courtyard and terrace, cinema, worship space, hair and beauty salon plus a gym.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image43_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The apartment aspect of the development. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="288" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image43_9.jpg?itok=9t_j8ryz" title="The apartment aspect of the development. Image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The apartment aspect of the development. Image: <a href="/architects/clarke-hopkins-clarke-0">ClarkeHopkinsClarke</a></figcaption></figure>Benetas' proposal is the first large-scale aged care/retirement village complex slated for Doncaster Hill, albeit on the periphery of the designated development zone.

Further east along Doncaster Road a swag of residential projects has either been built, are at sales or have progressed to construction. The residential aspect of Manningham City Council's Doncaster Hill strategy has taken full effect, although other uses such as commercial, hotel or aged care have failed to take a foothold in the concentrated development area.

Council planners noted that Benetas' proposal "complements and supports the strategic role of Doncaster Hill and contributes towards employment targets for the area. The use of the site for an aged care facility and a retirement village affords Doncaster Hill with a net community benefit that is fundamentally supported by policy."
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Benetas goes bigger on Doncaster Hill

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GUEST OBSERVER
"Ooh, a storm is threatening my very life today / If I don’t get some shelter / Oh yeah, I’m gonna fade away…"
Mick Jagger won’t ever need to be concerned about having somewhere to live, but older people have worried about where they will spend their final years since long before the Rolling Stones sang to a generation’s insecurities in 1969. Many wish to stay in their homes, but current policy doesn’t support age-friendly housing. It also makes it difficult for ageing people to manage their finances.
The population of people aged 65 and over in Australia is projected to grow from 3.7 million to 8.7 million by 2056. Cities, towns and housing need to be designed to help people stay at home as they age. Financial policy should be updated to enable them to better manage their assets.
Gwen’s story
Five years before her death, Gwen (not her real name) and her family faced a dilemma. Like many Australians, Gwen had juggled a succession of jobs, eventually owning her modest home. Following a fall, hospitalisation and rehab, her prognosis was not good.
Gwen wanted to die at home, or with her family. Should members of the family move into her house? Should she move into one of her adult children’s houses? What about their children?
Should they rent out the family properties, so Gwen and volunteering family members could cohabit in a more suitable rented property? Could they afford a house with the flexibility to handle two adults, one elderly person, possibly kids and pets?
For families like Gwen’s, there are few viable, let alone affordable, housing options. Gwen’s housing shuffle proved stressful for everyone. She was ultimately placed, against her wishes, in a nursing home. Aged 82, deprived of any sovereignty in her decision-making, Gwen passed away, but the family arguments and blame continued.
What is stopping people ‘ageing in place’?
Gwen’s deck of dominoes could not be reconfigured because of the housing, tax and financial barriers imposed by the same governments that are trying to implement “ageing in place”.
Ageing in place isn’t just about ageing at home. It’s about keeping older people connected to their neighbourhood and community as part of a broader framework of “active ageing”, with the aim of improving their quality of life and giving them more control over their circumstances.
Since the World Health Organization (WHO) released its Active Ageing policy framework in 2002, federal governments have endorsed this approach. The 2013 Living Longer Living Better reforms and last year’s Legislated Review of Aged Care promote emotional and mental preparation for old age, which is important for active ageing.
However, many aspects of policy in Australia undermine successful ageing in place.
A lack of suitable housing
First, ageing Australians have a limited choice of suitable housing, as the Productivity Commission has highlighted.
Livable Housing Australia’s guidelines recommend installing nonslip floors and grab rails and retrofitting rooms to help keep them at a comfortable temperature. This improves home liveability and reduces risks of harm for occupants. Incremental measures like these also have beneficial ripple effects by making housing suitable for all ages. However, such guidelines are not yet widely implemented.
The ability to influence what is built, and where, can greatly enhance or inhibit well-being. Denmark and Canada are already running with the 8 80 Cities concept, which aims to transform cities so they meet the needs of people of all ages. It’s a good example for Australian planners.
Local governments need to embrace redevelopment models that provide better ageing-in-place options for communities. The Greater Sydney Commission recently took a step in the right direction with its plans to increase housing supply and affordability. Its investigation into improving transport options and amenities could also enhance liveability.
The City of Melbourne’s Places for People strategy and the Age-Friendly Victoria initiative commit to housing that meets the WHO’s essential age-friendly city features. These programs recognise that placemaking is strongly linked with successful ageing in place.
Financial penalties for moving
Most Australians lack the financial means to customise their homes as they age. Safety concerns will eventually collide with their desire for independent living, forcing a devil’s choice. The decision to enter aged care can be very difficult for people and their families. Taxation and pension rules that prevent them managing their assets without losses worsen the situation.
If governments want to promote active ageing, then older people must be given more flexibility in managing their assets. This means allowing them to sell the family home, take the tax-free asset value, downsize to a suitable smaller property, and put the leftover money into their super without penalties in the form of stamp duty, tax or loss of benefits.
Many people don’t want to give up home ownership, especially as a family home doubles as a tax shelter. Ideally, a compact property would be preferable, designed to accommodate any generation, and with better access to the amenities and services needed later in life. Then, should they eventually need high-level care, the home could be rented out, providing an income stream to help cover medical and care expenses.
Future-proofed properties like this mostly do not exist in Australia. They don’t exist because, thanks to current policy, the elderly are reluctant to monetise their tax-free asset (the family home) to buy such properties and thus generate a demand to be met by developers.
Where do you want to die?
Baby boomers are living longer and are more mindful of their health and lifestyle. However, a recent survey found that only a small percentage were planning their financial future so they could live independently for as long as possible. And a growing number of seniors lack the income to cover the unforeseen costs that arise later in life.
Governments need to step up public information campaigns to encourage people to prepare for their old age. Without it, the confronting question “Where do you want to die?” cannot be feasibly answered.
Governments and the private sector can also take action to:
<ul>
<li>acknowledge the tax shelter status of private homes alongside the tax shelter status of superannuation</li>
<li>reduce transaction costs such as stamp duty that discourage moving before it becomes essential, as it often does for the over-80s</li>
<li>remove disincentives to releasing equity in the family home (for example, the pension means tests on proceeds in interaction with the pension and superannuation systems)</li>
<li>with the growth of the tiny house movement, ensure a wider variety of housing stock, styles and locations to support ageing in place</li>
<li>encourage emerging home ownership models, such as home equity release, reverse mortgages, fractional property investment and co-operative housing – to name a few.</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/91488/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">These initiatives would allow people to find and create homes that offer shelter from the ageing “perfect storm” already under way in Australia.
Juliette Brodsky, Researcher, College of Business, RMIT University 
Francis Grey, Economist and Sessional Academic, RMIT University
Sarah Sinclair, Lecturer in Economics, RMIT University
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/for-australians-to-have-the-choice-of-growing-old-at-home-here-is-what-needs-to-change-91488" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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For Australians to have the choice of growing old at home, here is what needs to change

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More than 8,000 square metres of land in Wheelers Hill has been given the development green light by Monash City Council.

At the turn of December Council chose to endorse an application to develop vacant land at 161-169 Jells Road for a multi-level aged care facility. As part of the CHT Architects-designed development, an existing aged care facility located at 171 Jells Road will also be refurbished.

The site had previously been marketed as an apartment complex backed by Ammache Architects. With that project failing to break ground, the prominent corner site was handed to CBRE City Sales during 2016 and was subsequently sold to Lifeview Residential Care.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image50_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Freshly approved. Planning image: CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="221" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image50_1.jpg?itok=vureNtEO" title="Freshly approved. Planning image: CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Freshly approved. Planning image: CHT Architects</figcaption></figure>The care provider can now add a further 206 bedsit rooms with ensuites to their existing adjoining facility. The new complex is split into three wings with four and five storeys the built outcome.

108 car parks are expected across the lower ground and ground floors with the main entrance to the new building fronting Ferntree Gully Road.  Amenities such as a café/bar, corner store, hair salon and function space are included, with bedsits within the building broken into clusters of 12 which are supported by a kitchen, dining and living area, laundry and study area.

The $40 million development now holds a Notice of Decision to Grant a Planning Permit, with final approval subject to conditions but a formality. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image48_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site's failed apartment development. Image: Ammache Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_7.jpg?itok=fSW597BT" title="The site's failed apartment development. Image: Ammache Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The site's failed apartment development. Image: Ammache Architects</figcaption></figure>Lifeview Residential Care's 161-169 Jells Road success reinforces the wave of aged care projects appearing across Melbourne's outer eastern suburbs.

Builder Cockram recently delivered Baptcare's The Orchards Community Retirement Living at 107 Andersons Creek Road, Doncaster East. It consists of 224 beds, whilst the builder has just begun works on the considerably larger <a href="/developments/blackburn-south-vic-3130">Regis Inala</a> aged care complex at 220 Middleborough Road, Blackburn South.

Buxton Construction is working on BlueCross Box Hill which will see a further  221 beds created, whilst Ringwood's Olivet Aged Care Development is approaching a construction start. Further to the above, 62-94 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave is also being considered for 179 independent living apartments, 108 aged care beds and 72 assisted living apartments.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image54_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="CHT Architects' Orchards Doncaster East &amp; Buxton Construction's BlueCross Box Hill"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="219" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image54_5.jpg?itok=O88vlwbv" title="CHT Architects' Orchards Doncaster East &amp; Buxton Construction's BlueCross Box Hill" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>CHT Architects' Orchards Doncaster East &amp; Buxton Construction's BlueCross Box Hill</figcaption></figure>
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Wheelers Hill's premier development site gets the green light

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RSL Care RDNS Limited, which recently changed its operating name to Bolton Clarke, is moving to rework a substantial St Kilda development site for the purpose of an aged care complex.

Spanning 3,799sqm, 31-39 Alma Road did hold approval for a Plus Architecture-designed mid-rise building holding 135 apartments. Under recast plans, the East Melbourne office of global architecture firm Design Worldwide Partnership has rejigged the approved scheme into a part-four and part-six storey development containing 81 retirement living dwellings.

Bolton Clarke's Alma Road project joins Jewish Care's nearby <a href="http://www.jewishcare.org.au/how-to-give/growing.-for-our-community/jewish-care-st-kilda-road/#residential-aged-care">Senior Living and Community Precinct</a> at 619 St Kilda Road; both intend to deliver a substantial boost in retirement living capacity to the area.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image10_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Plus Architecture's defunct design and Jewish Care's nearby development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="189" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_15.jpg?itok=8n79wppt" title="Plus Architecture's defunct design and Jewish Care's nearby development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Plus Architecture's defunct design and Jewish Care's nearby development</figcaption></figure>VCAT provided the original Plus Architecture scheme with approval on 21 June 2017. 

<blockquote>
The most significant change to the approved development discussed above is the use. Instead of residential dwellings (apartments), the proposal seeks to use the land for a retirement village.

The subtle changes to built form and layouts compared to the approved development are necessary elements to respond to the function of the new use proposed. This includes the additional, enhanced communal areas throughout the building, ancillary uses on-site, and a food and drink premises open to the public as well as residents of the building.

Planning report: SJB
</blockquote>

To that end communal space provided within 31-39 Alma Road has increased from 551sqm to 1,498sqm, whilst dwellings numbers have dropped considerably. Car spaces have also dropped from 170 to 109, resulting in expected traffic movements diminishing from 690 to 405 on a daily basis.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image7_16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alma Road perspective. Image: Design Worldwide Partnership"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="302" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_16.jpg?itok=HY8kLt-Z" title="Alma Road perspective. Image: Design Worldwide Partnership" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alma Road perspective. Image: Design Worldwide Partnership</figcaption></figure>Design Worldwide Partnership is an irregular entrant into the Apartments.com.au Project Database. Their previous work includes the joint design of <a href="http://dwp.com/community-project/rathdowne-place/">Rathdowne Place</a> with Jackson Architecture, with the result an aged community vertical village.

31-39 Alma Road's increased provision of communal space has resulted in a novel elevated bowls green atop level 4. Additional elevated amenities include multiple terraces, a 'community sky room' and a vegetable garden.

The St Kilda project forms part of Bolton Clarke's push to <a href="https://www.australianageingagenda.com.au/2017/08/08/rsl-care-rdns-rebrands-ambitious-target/">double in size over the next five years in order to maintain market share</a> in the expanding aged care and retirement living sector.
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Bolton Clarke reworks its Alma Road aged care complex

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GUEST OBSERVER
Where we live can play a big part in ageing well, largely because of the links between physical activity and wellbeing.
Research shows that two-thirds of Australians prefer to age in place. That is, we want to live independently in our homes for as long as we can. Our neighbourhoods and their design can then improve or hinder our ability to get out of the house and be physically active.
The rapid ageing of Australia’s population only adds to the importance of neighbourhood design. In 2016, 15% of Australians were aged 65 or older. That proportion is projected to double by 2056.
These trends present several social and economic challenges, particularly for the health sector. Designing neighbourhoods in ways that promote physical activity can help overcome these challenges.
Eight simple steps
The following is a short list of evidence-based steps local and state governments can take to assist older people to be physically active. These involve minor but effective changes to neighbourhood design.
<ol>
<li>Improve footpaths: Research indicates that older people have a higher risk of falls. Ensuring footpaths are level and crack-free, and free from obstructions, will encourage walking among older people – especially those with a disability. 
</li>
<li>Connected pedestrian networks: Introducing footpaths at the end of no-through-roads and across long street blocks reduces walking distances to destinations. This makes walking a more viable option. 
</li>
<li>Slowing traffic in high-pedestrian areas: Slowing traffic improves safety by reducing the risk of a collision. It also reduces the risk of death and serious injury in the event of a collision. 
</li>
<li>Age-friendly street crossings: Installing longer pedestrian crossing light sequences gives older pedestrians more time to cross, and installing refuge islands means those who walk more slowly can cross the street in two stages. 
</li>
<li>Disabled access at public transport: Although a form of motorised transport, public transport users undertake more incidental physical activity compared with car users. This is because they walk between transit stops and their origins and destinations. Improving disabled access helps make public transport a viable option for more older people. 
</li>
<li>Places to rest: Providing rest spots such as benches enables older people to break up their walk and rest when needed. 
</li>
<li>Planting trees: Planting trees creates more pleasant scenery to enjoy on a walk. It also provides shade on hot days. 
</li>
<li>Improving safety: Ensuring that streets are well-lit and reducing graffiti and signs of decay are likely to improve perceptions of safety among older people.</li>
</ol>
Why physical activity matters
Physical function – the ability to undertake everyday activities such as walking, bathing and climbing stairs – often declines as people age. The reason for this is that ageing is often accompanied by a reduction in muscle strength, flexibility and cardiorespiratory reserves.
Regular physical activity can prevent or slow the decline in physical function, even among those with existing health conditions.
Middle-to-older aged adults can reduce their risk of physical function decline by 30% with regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes per week). This includes recreational physical activity, like walking the dog, or incidental physical activity, such as walking to the shops or to visit friends.
By making minor changes as outlined above, the health and longevity of our elderly population can be extended. Such changes will help our elderly age well in place.
Jerome N Rachele, Research Fellow in Social Epidemiology, Institute for Health and Ageing, Australian Catholic University; Jim Sallis, Professorial Fellow, Institute for Health and Ageing, Australian Catholic University, and Emeritus Professor, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, San Diego, and Venurs Loh, PhD Candidate, Institute for Health and Ageing, Australian Catholic University
This article was originally published on <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/eight-simple-changes-to-our-neighbourhoods-can-help-us-age-well-83962" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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Eight simple changes to our neighbourhoods can help us age well

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Perhaps it's a case of third time lucky for the vacant former home of Coburg High School on Bell Street.

The monster 1.2 hectare site at 81 A Bell Street is back at planning, representing the third design to be proposed for the key site in recent years. Gone is the intent to deliver hundreds of apartments, but rather now advisory and project management firm Beca is overseeing efforts to deliver a substantial retirement village onsite.

Ryman Healthcare is the nominated operator for the intended development which would include 106 high care rooms, 76 assisted living suites 207 apartments tagged as independent living units. Ryman Healthcare specialises in aged care for people over the age of 65.

Five buildings are proposed across the site which is situated within the Coburg Activity Centre, with the tallest rising to 11 levels.

Below left is the previous design which gained a permit during 2015 for then owner Double LZ Development. 391 dwellings were the approved outcome, supported by 430 car parking spaces and retail tenancies.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image11_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Obsolete designs for the former Coburg High School site"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="194" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11_18.jpg?itok=47m6dUK1" title="Obsolete designs for the former Coburg High School site" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Former designs for the former Coburg High School site</figcaption></figure>Under the proposed amendment to the approved scheme, Beca and Ryman Healthcare are looking to implement a markedly different outcome for the site, albeit one which is generally within the built form envelope of the currently approved design.

The sought-after design now at planning is a far way from the initial scheme headed by developer Hamton, seen above right. Hamton, Macquarie Real Estate Equity Fund, Jackson Clement Burrows and SJB Planning were behind the abnormally shaped circular and interlinked development which would have bought 500 plus apartments, 3,000sqm of office/retail space, community facilities and a significant landscaping.

With that particular 2010-approved project consigned to history, the push to amend the currently approved scheme would also see landscaped areas, supplemented by a bowling green, activities areas, swimming pool and library.

According to planning documents, Plus Architecture aided Ryman Healthcare in the design process.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image12_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ryman's scheme as rendered from Bell Street with Rodda Street to the left"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="285" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image12_12.jpg?itok=QWHLvS53" title="Ryman's scheme as rendered from Bell Street with Rodda Street to the left" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ryman's scheme as rendered from Bell Street with Rodda Street to the left</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The proposed village has been designed to appropriately address the site interfaces, with careful consideration of adjacent residential properties and existing public open space. Building design has also responded to the neighbourhood character observed throughout the surrounding area.

Site buildings have been carefully articulated to maximise views of open space from windows and balconies, enhancing community living and interaction among residents.

The buildings are proposed to be constructed of a combination of brick, render and aluminium cladding with feature glazing. These materials are consistent with materials used for construction in the surrounding neighbourhoods.
<cite>Beca: Planning &amp; Urban Context Report</cite>
</blockquote>

The pending resolution of the Coburg High School site and its eventual delivery would shape as one of, if not Coburg's largest development in the pipeline.

The highly touted $1 billion, 20-year Coburg Initiative urban regeneration project in partnership between developer Equiset and Moreland City Council was scuttled six years ago. The second big-ticket project to falter within Coburg came by way of Epworth Healthcare's bid to open a private hospital diagonally opposite the Coburg High School site, which eventually amounted to nothing.
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The former Coburg High School site seeks a fresh beginning

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If the only inevitabilities in life are death and taxes, then the economy and government policy will start to reflect it.
This is particularly evident when the baby boomer generation goes through the significant transition to retirement.
In March 2017, an unprecedented value of building work was approved in construction of aged care facilities, totalling $340 million over the month.
Australia’s population aged 65 and over is an estimated 3.7 million people by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Approximately 5 percent are living in retirement communities, or some 184,000 Australians. Based on current projections, Australians aged 65 and over will make up over 20 percent of the population in 10 years’ time.
Despite a rapidly ageing population, the reality of developing aged accommodation – particularly retirement villages – is a harsh one. Like many assets, growth in the residential housing market has crowded out capital for aged accommodation.
According to a 2016 joint survey by the Property Council of Australia and Retirement Living, the national average price of a standard, two bedroom independent living unit increased just over 3 percent between 2015 and 2016. In the same period, CoreLogic data shows the national standard dwelling increased 7.3 percent.
Competition for vacant land, age friendly regulation compliance and investment into green technology to reduce long term service fees are factors that can inflate initial investment. This is amplified by the average tenure in retirement villages, which is approximately 12 years.
However, some areas across the country lend themselves to aged care development. Advantages such as relatively affordable land and mild climates make them popular with retirees. New incentives to downsize introduced in the federal budget may further boost these areas.
CoreLogic data of aged care facilities, independent living units and retirement villages reveals the areas most likely to benefit from the ageing population.
Of the states and territories, the most aged accommodation construction is occurring in New South Wales. The state has 113 projects with construction commenced or imminent over the next five years.
Within New South Wales, the highest frequency regions for construction were The Hills Shire, Newcastle, Wyong and Gosford. Between these regions, there are 26 aged care accommodation projects either approved or commenced, with completion expected by 2023. Newcastle, Wyong and Gosford offer lower land prices along the coast. As for the Hills Shire, while its lack of public transport to the city makes it relatively unattractive for young professionals, the area has a quiet, leafy exclusivity for retirement communities.
The number of aged accommodation developments in each state and territory is generally proportionate to population. The exception is South Australia, where there are 56 developments expected to be completed over the next few years. Of these, 10 are located in Onkaparinga Council, and 6 are located in the Port Adelaide Enfield region. South Australia has a higher proportion of 65’s and over to the total population.
Looking at individual council areas, Brisbane City is by far the most popular spot for aged accommodation projects. In the last 5 years, the region has seen over $725 million in aged care and aged living construction, ranging from upgrades of existing facilities to a $60 million integrated care facility at Carina. By 2020, a further 22 projects in the space are expected to be completed. In the same period, a further 11 are planned for the Moreton Bay Regional area, 9 in the Sunshine coast and 5 in Toowoomba.
A common trend in new developments is the blending of care types in the one precinct, such as the three tiered levels of care in The Village Coorparoo, mean that people are likely to stay on the one site for a longer period of time, or, ‘age in place’. The ageing in place model was also adopted in the recently completed Woodlands Aged Care Facility in the Sunshine Coast.
In the residential care sector, the Aged Care Financing Authority estimates that over the next decade, approximately 76,000 new places will be required, compared with just 35,000 established in the previous decade. In addition, much of the existing stock will require a knockdown and rebuild. The forecast investment required over the next decade is $33 billion. While the initial costs make aged accommodation unappealing for the average investor, the boomer retirement transition could represent a further boom for the construction industry.
Cameron Kusher is head of research for CoreLogic. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/" target="_blank">here</a>.
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The areas capitalising on an ageing population: Cameron Kusher

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Seniors living and aged care architect Marchese Partners has had two projects receive awards with the Mark Moran Vaucluse development in Sydney’s east was named the winner of the Excellence in Aged Care category at the UDIA NSW Awards for Excellence and Queensland's AVEO Clayfield nominated for the 2016 Best Over 50’s housing in the Global Awards.
Both were launched in  2016.
Marchese Partners’ chairman Eugene Marchese said in Australia we are slowly seeing the rise of new seniors living and aged care developments.
“Developments like this are going to become standard practice for this demographic because for too long seniors had to put up with living in facilities that were designed in the 70s," he said.
“The retiring generation is giving the retirement living sector a shakeup.
“No longer are they interested in just putting up with the current stock, they’re demanding more.
“That’s why as designers and architects we have to provide them a product that is designed to their lifestyle, and the projects at Vaucluse and Clayfield have done exactly that.” 
The Mark Moran Vaucluse development features 176 suites and 14 independent living units encircling a Village Square, integrating retail, commercial, entertainment, and community facilities.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Mark Moran's Vaucluse seniors living development wins excellence awards

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The next wave of projects readying for construction will see well in excess of $1 billion worth of additional development across Melbourne. Supplementing recently awarded projects and open construction tenders, a handful of major projects are also seeking permits to begin the construction process.

The most recent site to receive builders signage is CBD Development Group's 288 Albert Street, with LU Simon snaring Brunswick's tallest current development. At 14 levels, 288 Albert Street joins the likes of Reflections and The Burgin Residence (ABD Group), Dux Richmond Hill (Hacer Group) and Meridian (Platinum Constructions) as projects which have builders in place, but have yet to start works onsite.

Combined the above five projects alone will add near enough to 750 new apartments to Melbourne's inner suburbs.

Whilst the above projects are poised to begin construction, a wave of additional projects are at construction tender. Among them are two aged care projects that continue Melbourne's verticalisation of retirement living.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image28_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design firm smith+tracey's St Kilda Road development will become reality"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="407" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28_3.jpg?itok=f0986tyy" title="Design firm smith+tracey's St Kilda Road development will become reality" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Architecture firm smith+tracey's St Kilda Road design will become reality</figcaption></figure>Jewish Care Victoria and TLC Aged Care are both pursuing their respective projects on St Kilda Road and Queens Parade, Clifton Hill. With both freshly listed as new construction tenders, the end result will be hundreds of new aged care and community care beds, along with various facilities and services supplementing either development.

With its call to construction <a href="/news/construction-beckons-for-queens-place">recently outlined on Urban.com.au</a>, Queens Place Tower 1 headlines the prospective residential builds at tender. At the lower end of the size spectrum a swag of residential projects are also looking to lock away a builder. 

Rosslyn Apartments, Harvard Apartments, Piccolo Developments' 228-230 Dorcas Street, Rockley Gardens, 7-15 Little Oxford Street and the John Wardle Architects-designed 424 Malvern Road are all at tender.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ext1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rosslyn Apartments. Image: The Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ext1.jpg?itok=jCpz-FKb" title="Rosslyn Apartments. Image: The Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rosslyn Apartments. Image: The Buchan Group</figcaption></figure>In the student living stakes two noteworthy projects are at tender.

IGLU's 229 Franklin Street is a roughly 30 level tower that will mark the provider's entry into the Melbourne market, whilst Flemington Road is in for another shot of student living development. This is likely in the form of 5-17 Flemington Road, although a number of other student apartment projects are also active in the area.

From a commercial perspective three projects are preparing their tilt at construction, headlined by 161 Collins Street's T&amp;G Building refurbishment which is at tender. Owner Pembroke Real Estate's plans for the historic building involve a Bates Smart-driven overhaul of the famed Melbourne landmark.

Direct off Apartments.com.au's Forum is news that two of the CBD's larger commercial proposals have taken steps toward construction. 405 Bourke Street is subject to a Construction Management Plan submission which is with City of Melbourne and reportedly calls for a 10 month demolition and excavation programme, followed by 27 months of construction.

A Demolition Management Plan is also up for 477 Collins Street, with the Mirvac-backed development inching toward construction. Demolition is slated through to mid 2017, with construction complete in time for accounting firm Deloitte as the initial tenant to take up space by June 2020.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/side-elevation.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="405 Bourke Street as per the development's website"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="813" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/side-elevation.jpg?itok=UdkioSBY" title="405 Bourke Street as per the development's website" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>405 Bourke Street as per the development's website</figcaption></figure>
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