RSL ANZAC Village Renewal Redefines Ageing: Veteran and Senior Voices Driving Inclusive, Future-Focused Living

RSL LifeCare is proposing a transformation of RSL ANZAC Village - one of the Northern Beaches’ most iconic communities. The renewal will reimagine the 86-year-old site as a modern, tranquil village for veterans and seniors, where independence, wellbeing and connection are at the heart of everyday life.

This is the first time that RSL ANZAC Village has undergone a co-ordinated, site-wide masterplan. While over 30 individual developments have shaped the Village over the decades, this evolution brings a deliberate, future-focused vision - one that honours the past while meeting the expectations of current and future generations. The staged redevelopment, delivered over the next 10-15 years, will allow residents to continue enjoying village life as new services, amenities and homes are introduced.

“We are deeply proud of the legacy of RSL ANZAC Village and what it has meant to thousands of veterans and seniors, and the broader community over the decades,” said Janet Muir, CEO of RSL LifeCare. “This masterplan allows us to build on that foundation in a way that is cohesive, inclusive and true to our purpose to enrich the lives of veterans and seniors. It’s about creating a place where people continue to feel safe, valued and connected - now and into the future.”

The renewal has been shaped in close consultation with residents, team members, veterans and the wider community. RSL LifeCare is encouraging broad participation through its Have Your Say portal, where community members can provide feedback, and register for updates. Local residents and community representatives are also invited to express interest in joining the Community Reference Group, which will meet regularly throughout the planning process.

“We want this to be a community-led transformation,” said Janet Muir. “Whether you’re a neighbour, a veteran, a team member or someone with a personal connection to the Village, your insights will help shape the next chapter. We’re inviting people to share their voice and be part of designing a future that reflects what matters most to our residents and community.”

At its core are two new proposed precincts - a Lifestyle and Wellness Precinct and a Main Street and Health Precinct - connected by walkable green spaces, nature trails, and places for veteran commemoration.

Outdated buildings that no longer meet modern standards will be replaced with new homes in a variety of sizes and styles, supporting resident choice and evolving care needs.

This bold reimagining comes as the Northern Beaches faces a critical shortage of seniors’ housing. According to the ABS, the region is already short by 1,500 dwellings suitable for seniors, with demand growing by 200 homes each year. Additionally, across New South Wales, the aged care sector faces an alarming shortfall of 65,000 workers over the next decade. The RSL ANZAC Village renewal addresses both challenges with innovative housing for seniors, and providing workplaces for aged care workers that support, retain and attract skilled, compassionate carers.

The renewal is also expected to generate local employment opportunities, stimulate construction and service industry activity, and increase access to high-quality, integrated health and wellbeing services for the region’s growing older population.

RSL LifeCare plans to lodge applications as a State Significant Development with the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure in late 2025.

“This isn’t just about updating buildings—it’s about reimagining how we live as a community,” Ms Muir said. “Residents consistently tell us they value independence, diversity and connection. This transformation honours our legacy while creating a living environment that reflects how veterans and seniors want to age - with dignity, vibrancy and purpose.”

Find out more about RSL LifeCare