The Not For Profit, acutely aware of older women being made homeless with the demand for accommodation driving up prices, is refurbishing a group of independent living units in Eaglehawk, Bendigo, providing affordable housing for seniors in Victoria’s fourth most populous area.
"Over the past two decades demand for the existing small independent living units has dwindled. Given their lack of recent use, we saw an opportunity to better support the local community," said Benetas CEO Sandra Hills OAM.
The St Laurence Court Community refurbishment will include 38 two-bedroom units for seniors, with a focus on single women, who are from in and around Bendigo. It is expected to be ready by the end of 2024.
The original units were constructed in the early 1960s, housing more than 80 people in small bedsit units when at capacity.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the units were refurbished and used temporarily to house nursing staff employed by the adjoining Benetas Eaglehawk residential aged care home.
The fee arrangement will include monthly service fees to address operational expenses, along with the option of either a monthly accommodation charge or a modest lump sum. These fees will be tailored to an individual client's financial capacity.
"Benetas will manage the selection of suitable residents that apply directly to Benetas or via referral from a third party. Residents will be screened and include a suitability assessment interview, as well as Centrelink Income and Assets Assessment to prove Age Pension eligibility. Residents may have access to the Commonwealth Rental Assistance program, providing them with added security to pay fees that would apply under their agreements." Sandra added.
The refurbishments will transform the site, featuring a complete internal and external makeover of the units with two bedrooms, new walls, ceilings, flooring, a new kitchen, bathroom, laundry and wardrobes.
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