Feasibility Study for Over 55's Affordable Housing

Star of the Sea Homes for the Aged Inc., a trusted charitable organisation in Esperance, is taking a vital step toward addressing the region’s growing shortage of affordable housing for seniors. With support from the Mt Burdett Foundations Esperance Community Advisory Committee, the organisation has commissioned a professional feasibility study to explore the development of 8 to 16 new affordable units for people over 55.

Esperance is facing an acute housing shortage, especially for low-income residents and seniors who need secure, long-term accommodation. At the 2021 Census, 14% of the town's population was aged over 65, and that figure is continuing to rise. Combined with rental prices that are increasingly out of reach for many, this shortage is leaving vulnerable community members at risk of homelessness or dependent on temporary arrangements such as crisis housing or the goodwill of others.

Star of the Sea currently manages 17 aged care units on The Esplanade, built in the 1960s and fully occupied. Weekly, they receive multiple enquiries from seniors in desperate need of secure, affordable housing—but without more units, there simply isn’t the capacity to meet demand.

This initiative aligns strongly with the Mt Burdett Foundation’s commitment to healthcare, particularly in rural and regional WA. By supporting the development of a robust business plan, the Foundation is helping lay the groundwork for a long-term solution to Esperance’s senior housing crisis.

Visit the Mt Burdett Foundation website to find out more about grants from ECAC: https://www.mtburdettfoundation.org.au/esperance