Benetas opens retirement village for Bendigo seniors in need of affordable housing

Benetas has this week opened the first stage of its St Laurence Court Community, helping seniors secure affordable housing in Bendigo.

The first stage of the California Gully retirement community features 18 units for people aged 55 and older who are unable to break into the housing market.

Benetas has managed the selection of residents, prioritising older single women – a group considered the fastest growing cohort at risk of homelessness in Australia. All applicants have undergone a selection process to ensure they meet the financial criteria associated with affordable housing.

The refurbished units feature new walls, ceilings, floors, kitchen, bathroom, laundry and wardrobes as well as double-glazed windows, doors and painted timber work. They are energy efficient and include appliances that both improve environmental sustainability and reduce utility costs.

Benetas CEO Sandra Hills OAM said the refurbished units would make a difference for seniors struggling to keep a roof over their heads. Ms Hills said Benetas has fully funded without any State or Commonwealth government funding and worked closely with Bendigo-based community groups to ensure the homes were going to those that needed housing the most.

“Benetas is acutely aware of how limited access to affordable housing is impacting seniors right across Australia, particularly in regional areas,” Ms Hills said.

“We urge the federal government to work closely with state governments to provide more affordable housing, particularly in regional locations where demand is strong and older people require urgent support.

“This community will change the lives of people 55 and older, many of whom have exhausted all options to have a place of their own.

“We look forward to providing housing opportunities for more seniors when the 22-unit second stage is completed later this year.”

St Laurence Court Community residents will have shared access to the adjoining community centre located alongside the Benetas Eaglehawk residential aged care home.

The CWA Northern Group is generously donating a microwave and a quilt to welcome new residents, providing valuable support to enhance the wellbeing of the community.

Affordable housing has been a central part of Benetas’ mission, with the organisation first established following the second world war to provide housing, maintenance and welfare to elderly men and women in need. The project has been funded through Benetas’ social dividend allocation which provides support to people within our communities.

Benetas also operates retirement communities in Roxburgh Park (Bridgewater Lake), Mooroolbark (St John’s Rise) and Traralgon (Dalkeith Heights).