Anglicare Opens Critical Social and Affordable Housing Development in Dapto

Anglicare has officially opened Forestview, a new social and affordable housing development in Dapto, delivering 51 much-needed homes primarily for women over 55 in the Illawarra region.

The project comes at a crucial time, with 44% of households in the region experiencing rental stress and local rents rising by 21% over the past two years.

Speaking at the official opening, Anglicare Sydney CEO, Simon Miller, emphasised the importance of projects like Forestview in addressing the worst housing crisis in a generation.

“For many older Australians, finding secure and affordable housing is increasingly out of reach. With 73% of seniors in this region living on low to very low incomes, initiatives like Forestview are essential.

“This development provides not just a home but a community, with wraparound support to ensure residents thrive.”

Forestview is the final project to be delivered under Anglicare’s current funding agreement with the NSW Government, bringing Anglicare’s total contribution to over 500 social and affordable homes across the state. However, with the demand for housing growing, Miller called for an expanded government commitment.

“Anglicare is grateful for the partnership with the NSW Government to make Forestview a reality, and we call upon the Government to look at new ways to partner with organisations like Anglicare to better address the critical housing shortage facing vulnerable Australians.”

Unlike standard housing developments, Anglicare’s model integrates social and affordable housing within a broader retirement living community, reducing social isolation and promoting dignity for residents.

In addition to safe and secure housing, residents at Forestview benefit from:

• Tailored support coordinators, who monitor wellbeing and connect residents with healthcare professionals and financial assistance services.
• A guarantee of lifetime tenancy, ensuring long-term security.
• A strong sense of community, with access to shared facilities and programs that promote social inclusion.

“We know that providing a home is just the first step,” Miller said. “By integrating housing with holistic support, we are improving lives and enabling residents to age with dignity and stability.”

Forestview was delivered in partnership with Growthbuilt and the NSW Government. The opening event included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours of the new development.

Contact:

Dylan Malloch
Head of Media and Communications
dylan.malloch@anglicare.org.au