OneCare to build new retirement community

Tasmanian aged care provider OneCare is today breaking ground on its Barossa Living development, a new architect-designed retirement community in Glenorchy.

Barossa Living by OneCare will feature 56 villas and apartments and responds to the growing need for high-quality independent living options in and around Hobart.

Planning for Barossa Living has been underway for several years, as part of OneCare’s broader precinct strategy to create integrated environments that support wellness, independence and connected ageing, Mr Williams told Community Care Review.

“The concept design phase began prior to the pandemic, with renewed momentum in 2022 as OneCare completed its strategic plan and future accommodation analysis. Extensive community consultation and market demand studies confirmed the need for more high-quality retirement living options in the Greater Hobart region,” he said.

“Barossa Living has evolved carefully through that process, aligning with best practice design principles, our sustainability priorities and consumer feedback gathered from across the OneCare community.”

Mr Williams told CCR that the Barossa Living site represents a new generation of retirement living for Tasmania and is reflective of how people want to age today.

“We’re excited to provide genuine choice for retirees seeking to downsize without losing lifestyle, connection to their community or quality. For too long, development in this space hasn’t kept pace with expectations and Barossa Living changes that,” he said.

“The 56 villas and apartments are beautifully designed by Cykel Architecture, specialists in aged care and seniors’ living. The homes exceed legislative standards, feature seven-star-plus energy ratings and are filled with light, texture and warmth, truly places people want to live.”

Mr Williams said that so far, the community response has been “overwhelmingly positive,” and that they have had consistent interest from people across Hobart.

“People are drawn to the Barossa Park precinct’s sense of community, with its walking paths, café, community centre and proximity to residential and home care services. This development gives local residents confidence that they can remain in their community as they age, supported by OneCare’s broader network,” he said.

Retirement communities like Barossa Living play a crucial role in creating age-friendly, socially connected environments, Mr Williams explained, with loneliness among older Australians a growing issue.

At Barossa Living, residents have private, modern homes but can balance their sense of independence with connection – as they also have access to communal spaces, shared gardens and group activities that foster friendship and belonging.

“Equally important is the ‘continuum of care,’ residents know that if their needs change, OneCare’s home care services and the adjoining Barossa Park Lodge residential facility are close by,” Mr Williams said.

OneCare expects approximately 50 guests to attend the official launch event today, including MPs and prospective buyers.

Construction is expected to start in early 2026.

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