About this research project

Retirement village accommodation in Australia is expected to grow by as many as 115,000 units over the next twenty years, a tripling of the current industry. Stimson et al (2002) identifies the significant push-pull factors, but little or no work has been undertaken to identify spillover impacts to the broader community. This study investigates the economic, social, psychological and environmental impacts that accrue to a range of stakeholders. Topics under investigation include cost savings to government funded assistance and infrastructure, psychological and social benefits to residents and their families, project and asset management efficiency, and turnover of housing stock.

National and community benefit arising out of this project

The rapid ageing of the Australian population presents a critical challenge to economic, health and social policy. Housing is an important part of this matrix of policies, but has so far received scant attention, whether in Australia or internationally. This project will provide unique data on the relationships between key economic, built environment, social, psychological and health variables that should be considered in the provision of retirement accommodation. Relative to independent senior living, no similar integrative work has been attempted. This research falls within national research priority goals including ageing well, ageing productively, and strengthening Australia’s social and economic fabric.