An artist’s impression showing a possible design for the development. Image: Goodwin.
Canberra-based firm Monarch Building Solutions has been appointed by Goodwin Aged Care Services to complete the design and construction of the Next Stage Monash retirement living development.
The project, set within the established Goodwin Village Monash community, will deliver 56 independent living apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 24 three-bedroom homes spread across three two-storey buildings.
Secure basement parking, private storage, and lift access will be included within the development, and the apartments will be built to an all-electric standard, with induction cooking, ducted air conditioning, solar power for common areas, double glazing, and EV-ready infrastructure.
Goodwin CEO Stephen Holmes said Next Stage Monash is a response to clear demand from older Canberrans for high-quality homes that support independence, connection and changing needs.
“Monarch brings strong local construction knowledge and relevant experience in retirement living. We look forward to working together to deliver a development that complements the existing Monash village and provides lasting value for residents,” Mr Holmes said.
The milestone comes as the 2025 PwC–Retirement Living Council Retirement Census indicates growing demand for retirement housing, putting pressure on supply. The Census recorded 26,825 waitlist registrations nationally.
The ACT reported the second-highest waitlist volume, following New South Wales.
Erik Boddeus, Goodwin Executive Manager Retirement Living, Property and Development, said that interest since the project’s release has been strong.
“The immediate response showed us there is significant demand for thoughtfully designed two and three-bedroom retirement apartments in Canberra,” Mr Boddeus said.
“These homes have been designed to accessibility and adaptability standards, allowing residents to live well now while making it easier to respond if their mobility needs change in the future.”
PwC’s report also indicated that two-bedroom homes were the most sought-after accommodation type for retirement-age people, a demand Goodwin is responding to.
“For Monarch, the project continues our strong presence within retirement living, and we understand the importance of this type of housing as the population continues to grow,” Monarch Building Solutions director Marco Galeotti said.
“We look forward to working alongside Goodwin and Dowse Projects to deliver the next stage of purpose-built retirement living for the local community.”
Monarch has delivered independent retirement living and aged-care developments before, along with other experience in projects across the ACT and regional NSW.
“Next Stage Monash will build on Goodwin’s long history of supporting older Canberrans to live independently, remain connected and plan confidently for the future,” Mr Boddeus said.
“Once completed, these 56 new homes will bring Goodwin’s portfolio to 972 independent retirement living units across the ACT, strengthening the choices available to seniors across the city.”
Construction has already begun and the project is planned for completion in January 2028.
