IRT is set to deliver a major transformation of Diment, the first seniors’ living community it built more than 50 years ago on Staff Street, Wollongong.
With Wollongong City Council approval of its Development Application (DA), IRT is now ready to begin work on a comprehensive redevelopment that blends modern design with functionality – creating a vibrant, welcoming and connected community.
The project will give Diment a bold new look, featuring modern interiors, a refreshed building façade, and new communal spaces – all thoughtfully designed to foster wellbeing, social connection, and independence.
IRT CEO Ross Gallagher said the project carries deep significance for both IRT and the Illawarra community.
“We’re excited to be revitalising the place where IRT’s story began,” Mr Gallagher said.
“This transformation honours our past while delivering a future-focused, cost-accessible community that meets the evolving needs of older Australians. It’s about creating spaces that foster wellbeing, connection and lifestyle – and a place residents can truly be proud to call home.”
The redevelopment will include a full refurbishment of 102 independent living units, comprising a mix of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units. Interiors have been thoughtfully designed to prioritise accessibility, comfort, and ease of use, while landscaped gardens, accessible walkways, and vibrant new communal areas will foster social connection and a strong sense of belonging.
The iconic and recognisable tower, named in honour of one of IRT’s founders, Dr Max Diment, will be retained and receive a striking facelift, blending tradition with innovation.
“This adaptive approach reimagines the existing structure and transforms it into a progressive, welcoming space that will continue serving the Illawarra community for decades to come,” Mr Gallagher said.
“Diment has always been a pillar of the IRT community, and we’re honoured to give it a transformation that celebrates its legacy while ensuring it remains a vibrant, practical and inspiring home for residents.”
Diment is one of several major projects currently underway across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Eurobodalla regions, underscoring IRT’s ongoing investment in both its existing communities and new developments to meet growing demand.
“Our goal is to expand access to quality seniors’ living spaces, as well as lifestyle and wellbeing opportunities that support older people through every stage of ageing – both now and into the future,” Mr Gallagher said.
“This project also contributes to our broader commitment to deliver more than 800 new homes for older Australians over the next decade – a major investment in the communities we know, serve and are deeply proud to be a part of.”
Diment was originally built in 1971 and was the first seniors’ living high-rise building in the Wollongong CBD, combining both retirement living and residential aged care. Now, more than five decades later, IRT has grown to operate more than 40 communities across NSW, the ACT and Queensland.
“Our growth is built on the trust our residents and customers place in us – and that is a responsibility we take very seriously,” Mr Gallagher said.
“None of this would be possible without the dedication and passion of our incredible employees, whose commitment to those we care for and support continues to inspire us every day.”
IRT has appointed SHAPE as the principal contractor for Diment’s transformation. Stage 1 of construction is scheduled to begin in November 2025, with practical completion expected in early 2027.
Ahead of construction, current Diment residents are being supported to temporarily relocate, and IRT will assist them in returning to their newly refurbished homes once the project is complete.
For more information or to express interest in joining the Diment community, visit: https://diment.irt.org.au/
About IRT Group:
IRT Group is one of Australia’s largest community-owned, not-for-profit providers of retirement living, residential aged care and home care. With 55 years’ experience and locations throughout NSW, the ACT and South East Queensland, we employ more than 2500 people and play a significant role in promoting seniors as dynamic, influential and valuable members of society.
