Mark Eagleston, Calvary Strategic Operations and Performance – Retirement Living, said the results reflected demand and the affordable housing needs of many in the community.

“We had more than 50 enquiries in the first week alone when the units went on the market in February, and all eight units were snapped up within 72 hours of us conducting the first tour,” Mr Eagleston said.

“The enquiry rate and response shows a shift in the needs of senior Australians, many of whom are impacted by cost-of-living and other financial pressures.

“We had a range of different people come through, some who have never owned property and always rented, and some who didn’t quite have the lump sum needed to buy into a retirement village.

“The landscape of seniors’ living is changing, and we need to be offering choice. A rental option gives people who might be struggling or dealing with changes in their life circumstances choice, dignity and a level of flexibility so that they too can have a good quality of life.”

The village of eight, one and two-bedroom units is adjacent to Calvary Millward Residential Aged Care and represents the first fully dedicated seniors’ rental operation for the national not-for-profit organisation across its 17 retirement village sites.

“The location of the site itself ticked the boxes of good quality accommodation and affordability in the Melbourne market, and the residents will enjoy the same services and benefits of a village, like social connections, low maintenance living, and security, but without the lump sum ingoing contribution,” Mr Eagleston said.

“Calvary’s aim is to provide great, connected care. Being co-located with our Millward Residential Aged Care Home will be of benefit for those thinking about their future care needs. Residents will also have access to additional services they can pay for including meals through the neighbouring aged care home, and Calvary’s Home Care services to assist with ageing in place for as long as possible if they need.

“Our decision to change the operating model of our Sydney Williams site shows Calvary is listening to and respectful of the needs of the communities we serve.”