The for-purpose organisation has been given a ministerial planning permit for its newest retirement living precinct after more than two years of planning and community engagement.
Designed by Jackson Clements Burrows Architects, VMCH's St. Francis on the Park, in Ivanhoe East, includes 58 independent living apartments and amenities and direct access to Ivanhoe Park.
The population of residents aged 65-plus living in Ivanhoe and surrounds is expected to grow from 29,000 to 34,035 by 2032.
The Victorian Government’s Ageing Well Action Plan 2022-2026 notes older people want to age in place within their local neighbourhood and community.
VMCH CEO Sonya Smart said proceeds from the sale of residences at St. Francis on the Park will directly support VMCH’s mission-driven initiatives, including affordable homes.
“This site (on Lower Heidelberg Rd) was formerly home to outdated affordable housing which no longer served its residents. In 2023, we were proud to build a new, purpose-built affordable homes development in nearby Ford Street, Ivanhoe, called Trinity Lane. The award-winning development provides 39 modern and accessible apartments for older people on low incomes and people with disability,” Sonya said.
“Now, two years later, we are pleased to finally begin work on St. Francis on the Park. This project not only meets a clear need for local high-quality retirement living, but also strengthens our ability to deliver vital services to those who need them most. Importantly, retirement developments like St. Francis also help free up stock for young families struggling to enter the housing market. This decision is a win for the community, for our future residents, and for our mission.”
Demolition of the existing buildings is scheduled to commence shortly, with the display suite opening in 2026.
VMCH's $250 million flagship Woods Bagot designed project St. Clare in Kew, is nearing completion.
