University-based intergenerational retirement community is an ACT first

A University of Canberra-based intergenerational retirement community has been announced — marking the first in the ACT and second in Australia. It is the result of a partnership between University of Canberra (UC), Pariter and Opal HealthCare for the development and long-term operation of the community and is to be based on UC’s Bruce campus.

The project will complement the UC’s existing health infrastructure, which includes the UC Hospital and UC Health Hub. Integrating senior living, health care, education and community engagement in a unique, intergenerational setting, the development is intended to redefine aging in place, and strengthen the social fabric of Canberra, contributing to the ACT’s vision of being an age-friendly city.

Highlights of the development include: 230 independent living units, 180-bed residential aged care community, community wellness facilities and extension to UC’s health precinct linking UC Hospital and UC Health Hub. Under this development, UC will lease land to Pariter and Opal Healthcare under a 100-year agreement.

“This project will create a living and learning environment where older Australians can stay engaged, active and connected — not only with health services, but with ideas, students and the vibrant university campus life,” said Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Canberra, The Honourable Bill Shorten. “It will create a benchmark for intergenerational living on University campuses, one which I hope will be replicated across the country in years to come.”

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