Care that feels like home: RetireAustralia’s first Care Hub marks one year

RetireAustralia’s first nurse-led Care Hub has marked its first year of operations, reaching functional capacity within 12 months and demonstrating strong demand for dignified, homelike support embedded in retirement living. The 10-suite hub—at The Verge Retirement Village on the Gold Coast—provides 24/7, registered nurse-led care in a boutique care environment that keeps residents close to community and family.

RetireAustralia Chief Operating Officer Simon Fawssett said the model was designed around what older Australians want most. “People want to be cared for in their own home. That sentiment underpinned our strategy from the beginning,” he said.

Unlike traditional aged care, the Care Hub removes common access barriers — there’s no ACAT assessment or asset testing — and supports both short-term respite and longer-term stays based on need. Suites are self-contained for privacy and autonomy, while shared spaces encourage connection. The care hub was built to National Construction Code Class 9C and Livable Housing Australia Gold Level, with design informed by University of Stirling principles that address age-related impairments.

Residents say the difference is tangible. David, a retired journalist living with Parkinson’s, moved into the Care Hub from his apartment at The Verge and has regained confidence through tailored care and daily exercise, while his wife, Kathy, remains living independently nearby. Isla, the hub’s first resident, describes the team as “family,” reflecting a focus on compassion, continuity and choice.

Demand has been sustained through the year, with a steady sell-down rate of around one suite per month. As the model evolves in response to resident needs and sector shifts, recent pricing updates reflect benchmarking and strong demand: the ingoing contribution has moved from $600,000 to $650,000, the daily care and services fee from $300 to $315, and the daily accommodation fee from $54 to $92.Verney DCG Meeting

“Looking ahead, we’re refining rather than replicating,” Fawssett said. “From staffing to financial models, we’re building on what works and preparing for what’s next.