An artist’s impression of the new-look IRT Woonona Place. Photo: IRT.
IRT has pledged the transformation of its Woonona site will “set a new benchmark for seniors living in the Illawarra”.
One of the organisation’s oldest sites will not only get a completely new look, it will also have a new name – Woonona Place.
IRT has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for the revitalisation of its seniors living community on Popes Road.
The NSW Planning Department has opened the plans for feedback until Monday 25 August.
IRT CEO Ross Gallagher said the SSDA lodgement marked a major milestone in shaping an exciting new future for one of IRT’s most historic sites.
“To reflect this transformation, we’re introducing a new name for the community – Woonona Place. It symbolises more than just a location; it represents belonging, connection and care in one of the region’s most naturally stunning settings,” Mr Gallagher said.
“Woonona Place is about more than building new homes; it’s about creating a lifestyle destination where older Australians can live independently, age with confidence, and stay connected to the people and places they love.
“With stunning natural surrounds, high-quality architecture, and integrated wellness amenities, Woonona Place will set a new standard for what modern retirement living can look like in the Illawarra.”
The redevelopment includes:
- 98 new residences, with a mix of two and three bedrooms across five architecturally designed buildings, each connected by landscaped paths and green spaces
- a Social and Wellness Centre featuring a hydrotherapy pool, gym, and an allied health consulting room to support active ageing
- a clubhouse with a community kitchen, bar and library
- a refurbished Flame Tree Aged Care Centre to deliver high-quality care
- the restoration of the on-site heritage church into a restaurant, expanding dining options for residents and the local community.
Mr Gallagher said it was a legacy project for IRT, “one that reflects our dedication to innovation, dignity and choice in ageing”.
“This is one of several projects underway across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Far South Coast that highlights our commitment to reinvesting in our existing sites, while also developing new communities to meet growing demand,” he said.
“Our goal is to deliver more seniors living space, as well as lifestyle and wellbeing opportunities, to support older people through all stages of ageing – both now and into the future.”
In its environmental impact statement, IRT said it expected the construction work would create more than 420 jobs. Once the project was complete and fully operational, it was expected to support 80 ongoing jobs.
IRT Woonona was originally built in the 1970s. As part of early redevelopment, aged care services were wound down in the Ribbonwood and Blueberry Ash buildings, which have since been demolished.
Final assessment and approval of the plans is not expected until 2026.
To view the plans and make submissions, visit the NSW Planning Portal.
