RSL LifeCare will commence construction this month on the second stage of its St Quentin Place retirement living community in Kaleen, delivering 83 new homes for seniors as demand for age-friendly housing continues to grow across the ACT.
The estimated $65 million project will add 72 apartments and 11 townhouses, along with a new community hub and shared outdoor spaces, expanding the development from 20 completed homes to a total of 103 residences.
Canberra-based builder Bloc is expected to begin work in early June, with construction anticipated to take around 20 months and completion targeted for early 2028.
The expansion comes as Canberra’s ageing population continues to rise, with the number of residents aged over 65 projected to increase from 62,203 in 2021 to more than 114,000 by 2060. It also aligns with broader efforts to increase housing diversity across the ACT and support older Australians to remain independent and connected within their communities.
RSL LifeCare Chief Executive Officer Drew Pearce said the development would provide greater housing choice for veterans and seniors seeking to age in place.
“This is about giving veterans and seniors more choice in where and how they live, in a part of Canberra they already know,” Mr Pearce said.
“It combines quality housing with access to care and support as needs change, adding to the range of options available for older people at a time when demand is only increasing.”
The project follows the successful completion of Stage 1 and strengthens RSL LifeCare’s retirement living footprint in Canberra’s northern suburbs.
Chief Property Officer Steve Thomas said the new stage responds to growing demand for low-maintenance housing designed to support independence and wellbeing.
“For the sector, this is about delivering the types of homes seniors are looking for in locations close to services and community,” Mr Thomas said.
“The mix of apartments, townhouses and shared amenities reflects changing resident expectations and the direction of demand.”
The homes will incorporate a range of ageing-in-place features, including step-free access, wider doorways, secure entry systems, lift access for apartment residents, dedicated storage and the option to access home care services if required.
Design refinements made through the planning process include lower building heights and townhouse-style housing along the Warrego Circuit frontage, complemented by extensive landscaping throughout the site.
The development reflects growing industry and government focus on expanding retirement living options as Australia’s population ages, with providers increasingly investing in communities that combine housing, support services and social connection.
