Housing Australia supports the delivery of Purrkanaitya Aboriginal Elders Village
Today, Housing Australia joined Aboriginal Community Housing Limited (ACHL) for a sod turn event to mark the construction commencement of a new Aboriginal Elder Independent Living Village in Bedford Park, South Australia.
Housing Australia’s National Housing Infrastructure Facility Social and Affordable Housing (NHIF SAH) is supporting the new housing project through a grant of $5.15 million to deliver 40 culturally appropriate one-bedroom social dwellings, which will include the necessary infrastructure to promote independent living within a community setting for Aboriginal elders.
Purrkanaitya Aboriginal Elders Village has been enabled by the Indigenous Land & Sea Corporation providing land located near a traditional ceremonial meeting place of the Kaurna site ‘Warriparinga’, with the construction funded by grants from the Indigenous Land & Sea Corporation, the South Australian Housing Trust, Housing Australia and Community Housing Limited.
Designed by Adelaide-based C4 Architects, the village was developed in consultation with the Indigenous community to meet social and cultural needs, offering a meaningful alternative to public housing. Fusco Constructions has been appointed to commence the construction, and the project is expected to reach completion by June 2026.
Aboriginal Community Housing Limited (ACHL) CEO, Stacey Broadbent said, “The significance of the Elders Village is more than just bricks and mortar, it is acknowledging and respecting the Home of the Kaurna Yerta Elders – being home on country, being home with each other and family and being home in a place of belonging.
“The space offers independent living enhanced by gathering spaces like outdoor common areas and fire pits—amenities simply unavailable in other social housing developments. The units are also designed to accommodate ageing in place, with the homes being disability friendly and featuring space for mobility aides like walkers.”
Housing Australia CEO Scott Langford said, “The collaboration between all parties has brought this truly meaningful housing project to life, offering valuable insights into the successful delivery of culturally appropriate housing solutions. We are proud to support partners who are fostering a deep sense of belonging and security, aiming to enhance community wellbeing and create a lasting and impactful change for local Aboriginal Elders.”