Kiah Lodge Retirement Community

Australian Unity Retirement Communities: Communities, Care and Locations Across New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland

Australian Unity is one of Australia's longest-established retirement living operators, with roots back to 1840 and 20 communities across New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. Find an Australian Unity community near you below, or read on for costs, care details and what sets Australian Unity apart. If you are considering downsizing, the sections below set out what to look at and what to ask before you visit.

Quick facts

About Australian Unity

Australian Unity entered retirement living by acquiring established communities, and more than 3,500 residents now call them home. Homes come as apartments, villas, bungalows or units, so you can choose the size and style that suits you. Some communities focus on independent living, while others also offer serviced apartments. With that range on offer, it is worth thinking about how much space you want and which type of home fits the way you live.

Most communities use lease agreements. Australian Unity looks after the shared facilities, gardens and common areas, which leaves your time free for family, friends and the things you enjoy. Amenities and activities vary by community, so you can find the social life that suits you. When you visit, ask what a typical week looks like so you can picture yourself living there.

Australian Unity is a signatory to the Retirement Living Code of Conduct, the retirement living industry's own voluntary code setting standards for how operators treat residents. That means you know the standards it has committed to meet. It is a member-owned mutual, not a shareholder-owned company.

Costs & fees

For a current price, call Australian Unity directly on 1300 160 170 or enquire through the listing for the community you're interested in. When you make contact, ask for the details in writing so you can set one community against another on the same terms. It also helps to take your time reading the paperwork, and to bring a family member or trusted adviser along to talk it through before you commit to anything.

Care & lifestyle services

You can live independently in your own home and add support as your needs change. Some communities offer access to visiting health professionals and support services, delivered on site or through external providers. Support is optional, so you add only what you need and stay independent for longer. 24/7 emergency call monitoring means help is available at any hour. Thinking through what support you might want in future is a good habit now, because your answer shapes which community is the best fit.

Serviced apartments are offered only at selected communities, and some communities have aged care on site or nearby. Where they exist, they are part of the community or close by. It is worth asking at each community what is available. Raise the question directly during a visit and ask how extra support would be arranged if your circumstances changed.

Residents enjoy community centres, libraries, fitness areas and social lounges for staying active and meeting neighbours. Some communities also have a cafe, salon or village bus, and the mix varies by community. A strong community network sits around you. Check which facilities the community you like actually has, rather than assuming every one offers the same.

What makes Australian Unity different

Because Australian Unity is owned by its members, it has greater flexibility to invest in the services that matter most to its members and customers. With 20 communities across three states, you can look for the location and home style that suits you. Security is a guiding principle, with secure purpose-built accommodation and a strong community network. Each community also gives prospective residents a clear guide to services, facilities, fees and charges, so you can compare communities on the details.

In 2010, 95 percent of independent living residents and 98 percent of aged care residents were completely satisfied or satisfied. Signing the Retirement Living Code of Conduct adds industry standards for how residents are treated.

Last updated: October 2026.