RetireAustralia unveils $32M expansion of largest QLD village
The privately owned retirement living operator is expanding and revitalising Carlyle Gardens Retirement Village in Bargara, in Queensland’s Bundaberg region.
The expansion will see 38 new independent living villas built alongside substantial upgrades to shared community amenities.
Carlyle Gardens is RetireAustralia’s largest village in Queensland, and the expansion reflects the ongoing demand for retirement living in the Bundaberg region. Village occupancy sits above 95%, with an average of 15 to 20 resales each year and a waiting list.
The $32 million, four‑stage expansion will deliver the new villas across 2026, increasing the village to a total of 332 homes when complete.
Alongside the new homes, the Invesco Real Estate-owned RetireAustralia is investing a further approximately $4 million in revitalising existing village infrastructure and shared spaces.
Stage 1 of the project has now reached practical completion, delivering the first six new villas as well as a suite of community upgrades. Construction has been formally handed over to Operations, with preparations underway to welcome new residents in the coming weeks.
A major focus has been the Community Centre with upgrades including refreshed interiors, improved air‑conditioning, new furniture, enhanced wayfinding signage and revitalised indoor and outdoor spaces.
The works have also included road upgrades, improvements to outdoor dining and pool areas, an upgraded entry and porte cochère, and the return of the much‑loved community garden.
“This investment reflects the strength of demand we continue to see at Carlyle Gardens and across the Bundaberg region,” said RetireAustralia CEO Brett Robinson.
“By combining new homes with targeted upgrades to shared amenities, we’re ensuring our largest Queensland village remains a vibrant, well‑connected community for years to come.”
The new villas have been built to Australian Livable Housing Gold Standard, supporting accessibility and independent living, and form part of the broader approach to ensuring Carlyle Gardens continues to meet the evolving needs of residents.
