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When concerned health professionals first formed Beaconsfield Park Incorporated more than 50 years ago it was because they were worried about housing affordability for senior citizens.
They realised that for many people, especially those who had lived and worked on the land but didn’t own their own home, there was nowhere for them to live out their retirement that didn’t require a major investment.
With the help of the local community the not-for-profit organisation was formed and on granted land at the northern end of Beaconsfield one-bedroom units were built to rent back to senior citizens at a reasonable rate.
These same brick units, now totally modernised and in some cases extended to offer two bedrooms, are still fulfilling the role of offering affordable accommodation late in life for as long as the occupier needs it.
Manager Lynne Armstrong is the friendly face of the 26-unit complex, and she helps take the stress out of retirement living for the occupants.
“We are not a care facility – but the Beaconsfield Health Service is just over the road and it offers many and varied services, from Meals on Wheels to a community bus to health specialists,” she said.
“We simply offer great accommodation in a beautiful, park-like setting where all the white goods are supplied, the maintenance is taken care of and other than rent and power the occupiers have nothing else to budget for. It’s a safe, secure, comfortable environment and their home for as long as they want,” Lynne said.
Only one two-bedroom unit (pictured below and kitchen above), two single units and two small single units are currently available.
- VIDEO: Take a walk through the latest modernised unit at Beaconsfield Park
HOW TO SECURE A UNIT AT BEACONSFIELD PARK
To secure a unit at Beaconsfield Park applicants must be over 60, have confirmation from a GP that they are capable of living independently and must be approved by the volunteer board of management against a set criteria.
There is a contract to sign, but no lease, and residents can stay for as long as they want without fear of being evicted. Residents can be from anywhere within Australia.
A one-off entry cost of between $10,000-$50,000 (depending on the size of the unit) is paid up front and then rent, power and phone are the only ongoing costs.
Rates, maintenance inside and out, white goods and power in common areas are all covered by management.
Rent for a “small single” is $248.90 per fortnight, a “double” is $319.90 and a two bedroom $397.70.
Enquiries to Lynne on 0429 825 867.