Goodwin Aged Care Services, ACT’s largest not-for-profit aged care and retirement living provider, launched construction on their newest development Goodwin Village Downer.
Future residents of Goodwin Village Downer eagerly attended the event, alongside, Federal Member for Canberra, Alicia Payne MP, Shane Stephen Rattenbury, the Attorney-General of the ACT, Goodwin staff, community members and key stakeholders involved in the project.
Goodwin Village Downer is designed to provide a supply of quality affordable options, aiding older individuals to uphold their quality of life amidst the cost-of-living crisis. Offering both independent and assisted living apartments.
Leisel Wett, Chair of the Board at Goodwin stated, “It is the first retirement village in Canberra that will have affordable housing properties for senior Canberrans. It is also a first for Goodwin with the inclusion of assisted living accommodation for those who require that extra support”.
Alicia Payne MP stated, “I have visited many of the Goodwin Retirement Villages here in Canberra, and they have such a great community feel... this is so important for Canberra because we really need more affordable housing, and the assisted living is something that we always need more of as well. So, I think this is a fantastic development for Canberra”.
Goodwin Village Downer has been long awaited due to COVID-19 and supply chain constraints and has seen strong initial sales. With 50% of housing already sold, high engagement from the community shows the demand for more senior’s accommodation in Canberra.
With a commitment to empowering residents to lead active and fulfilling lives in a welcoming community, Goodwin upholds a strong emphasis on supporting individuals in maintaining independence and personal lifestyle choices while still accessing the necessary support.
Leisel Wett continued, “The design for this village encapsulates an existing strong community atmosphere and its fitting into the local neighbourhood...”
“We were very much attracted to this location because of the proximity to the stores, but also the nearby public transport corridor.”
This marks an exciting expansion of Goodwin's presence in the Canberra community, especially timely as it precedes their 70th anniversary as a leading aged care service provider, being celebrated in May this year.
Richie Allan, Cultural Director of Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation (TOAC) held a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to assist in cleansing the area and promote the protection and well-being of visitors.
The sod turning ceremony was undertaken by Leisel Wett, Chair of the Board at Goodwin and Mark Bauer, Chief Executive Officer, Manteena Group.
