One of the Northern Beaches’ most iconic communities is set for its most significant transformation in nearly nine decades, with RSL ANZAC Village planning a comprehensive renewal that directly addresses the region’s critical seniors housing shortage.

The 86-year-old village will undergo its first coordinated, site-wide masterplan—a community-driven redesign spanning 10-15 years that aims to tackle both housing shortages and aged care workforce challenges facing the region.

According to Australian Bureau of Statistics data, the Northern Beaches already faces a shortage of 1,500 dwellings suitable for seniors, with demand growing by 200 homes annually. The renewal proposal comes as NSW confronts an alarming shortfall of 65,000 aged care workers over the next decade.

“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 transformation marks a departure from three decades of individual developments, with RSL LifeCare proposing two new precincts connected by walkable green spaces, nature trails, and veteran commemoration areas.

A Lifestyle and Wellness Precinct and Main Street and Health Precinct will replace outdated buildings that no longer meet modern standards, offering new homes in various sizes and styles to support resident choice and evolving care needs.

The renewal has been shaped through extensive consultation with residents, team members, veterans and the wider community, with RSL LifeCare encouraging broader participation through its Have Your Say portal and a Community Reference Group meeting regularly throughout planning.

“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.”

Beyond addressing housing shortages, the renewal aims to create workplaces that support, retain and attract skilled aged care workers—a critical component as the sector faces unprecedented staffing challenges.

The project is 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, with the staged redevelopment allowing current residents to continue enjoying village life as new services, amenities and homes are introduced.

“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.”