Juniper move supports affordable rentals for older people in Albany

Juniper will acquire Wollaston Court Retirement Village from Amana Living, assuring continued affordable rental housing for older people in Albany.

Juniper CEO Russell Bricknell said the acquisition further built Juniper’s commitment to the Albany community and ensuring older Western Australians have the opportunity to access care and accommodation, no matter their means.

“We want to extend a warm welcome to the residents of Wollaston Court to Juniper. We are excited to continue supporting residents as Amana Living has done for many years, giving Albany locals an affordable housing option to keep living in their communities, close to family, friends, and familiar surroundings,” Mr Bricknell said.

“It is expected people over 75 in Albany will grow by more than 35% by 2032. Combined with the relatively recent closure of permanent resident accommodation options at two local caravan parks and the City’s housing crisis, those needing affordable housing is soaring.”

Amana Living CEO Stephanie Buckland said she was confident Juniper would continue to support and enhance the retirement living experience for Wollaston Court residents.

“Juniper is a respected, not-for-profit provider with extensive experience in retirement living, and strong local presence in Albany through its management of Boronia Court Retirement Living,” Ms Buckland said.

Juniper will officially acquire and begin managing Wollaston Court Retirement Village on April 30.

Located just five minutes’ walk from Spencer Park Shopping Centre, the village includes 22 homes with a mix of one- and two-bedroom units.

Juniper will be honouring the lease agreements with current residents. The village is currently near fully occupied, reflecting the demand for affordable housing in Albany.

Juniper has a proven track record of delivery care and accommodation in Albany through the Juniper Korumup Residential Aged Care Home, Boronia Court Retirement Living and Juniper Albany Community Centre all located in Lockyer, Albany. In the Great Southern region Juniper also offers residential aged care at Bethshan in Katanning, in addition to Home and Community Care services in and around Katanning.

Juniper will continue current arrangements with a dedicated Village coordinator one day a week, with Juniper Boronia Court and Community Centre coordinator Kerryn Proctor to step into the role.

Juniper will continue offering affordable rentals at Wollaston Court into the future with any new tenants meeting the community housing asset and income thresholds set by the Department of Housing and Works.