Aged care provider Eldercare has achieved a major sustainability milestone, with its Goodwood home becoming the first aged care facility in South Australia to receive a 6 Star Green Star rating.
The certification awarded under the Building Design and Construction (version 1.3) framework by the Green Building Council of Australia, recognises world-leading performance in sustainable building design and construction.
Green Star is widely regarded as Australia’s benchmark sustainability rating system for the built environment, assessing factors including energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, water management and climate resilience. A 6 Star rating represents the highest level of achievement.
Eldercare Chief Executive Jane Pickering said the organisation was proud to lead the sector with the milestone.
“Our innovative, sustainable design has been built around our model of care to support the health and wellbeing of a rapidly ageing population who expect to age well, remain connected to community and are environmentally aware.”
She added that the recognition reinforces Eldercare’s commitment to environmental sustainability and alignment with global best practice.
The $40 million Eldercare Goodwood, which opened in Adelaide in February 2025, accommodates up to 100 residents and integrates a range of sustainability features.
These include a 100 kW solar photovoltaic system powering an all-electric building, a stormwater collection and reuse system for irrigation, 150,000 litres of rainwater storage, and energy-efficient LED lighting with motion sensors. Design elements such as double-glazed windows and natural ventilation further enhance thermal comfort and efficiency.
Operational data shows the facility saved more than 300,000 kWh of electricity in a year, equivalent to powering around 68 average South Australian households, and more than 1,450 kilolitres of water, enough to supply up to eight households.
Designed by Brown Falconer and constructed by Sarah Construction, the development reflects a broader shift in aged care towards environmentally responsible infrastructure.
The Green Star program has certified thousands of projects nationwide, supporting the transition to healthier, more sustainable buildings across Australia’s built environment.
