Located immediately to the south of Sydney, Illawarra is a delightful coastal region that resides in the southeastern part of New South Wales.
The region encompasses the cities of Shellharbour and Wollongong , as well as the lovely coastal enclave of Kiama. It is famous for its fantastic beaches and beautiful scenery, which attracts plenty of tourists, not to mention retirees who want to live out their golden years here.
Should you be actively looking for a place to move into, there are several retirement villages in Illawarra to choose from.
Outlined below is a selection of 10 of the best ones to consider. Each of them offers distinctive characteristics and drawcards that should pique your interest.
Oak Tree Retirement Village Moss Vale
Centrally located within a two hour drive of Sydney and Canberra lies Moss Vale – the agricultural hub for the Southern Highlands. If you’re looking to lead a relaxed retirement lifestyle, then this charming town is the place to be!
Within it, the Oak Tree Retirement Village is an excellent choice. It provides boutique-sized retirement living that offers peace of mind and a low-maintenance lifestyle for seniors who want to focus on enjoying life to the best of their ability.
Comprising 39 homes, this friendly community of like-minded individuals is designed to enable residents to live independently for longer by accommodating their various needs in a thoughtful way.
For instance, their stylish 2 and 3 bedroom brick villas are designed to reduce trip hazards with front and rear doors recessed for easy accessibility. They also come with ducted air-conditioning, full-sized kitchens equipped with dishwashers and high-quality stone bench tops.
In addition, residents can benefit from spacious bathrooms that have walk-in showers, lock up garages that provide you with internal access, and covered, private outdoor entertaining areas. Moreover, they don’t have to worry about general maintenance and gardening of the village’s common areas, as the staff take care of them.
Address: 50 Willow Drive, Moss Vale, NSW, 2577
Phone: 0447 378 042
Website: https://www.oaktreegroup.com.au/location/moss-vale/
Hillcrest Village
Over in Stanwell Park, you can indulge in the comfort of modern and stylish living spaces, which have been architecturally designed to include all of state-of-the-art safety features you would expect from a retirement village.
The village is situated on 4.7 hectares of rolling bushland amidst stunning, landscaped gardens and is just a few minutes away from Stanwell Park beach. It is also just an hour away from Sydney.
Units at Hillcrest Village are designed to provide residents with the peace of mind of having the privacy, independence and freedom that comes with living in their own home. Overall, there are 28 on offer which come with configurations of one, two and two bedrooms with study – all of which come with designs that are ecologically sustainable.
Featuring open plan living areas that include modern kitchens, laundry, spacious bathrooms and private outdoor and garage access, the units are decorated with quality, contemporary finishes, such as reverse cycle air conditioning in both the main bedroom and the living room, stainless steel appliances and beautifully polished, Australian-made hardwood floorboards across all living areas.
In addition to the accommodation, the village staff takes care of all maintenance in the gardens and units. They also offer flexible payment plans and finance options, as well as a no-departure fee option, which gives you the ultimate freedom to choose.
Address: 1a Railway Crescent Stanwell Park, NSW, 2508
Phone: 02 8197 9304
Website: https://upasydney.org.au/retirement-village-hillcrest/
Jettys by the Lake
As its name implies, Jettys by the Lake provides seniors with the opportunity to enjoy life in a retirement village that offers a stunning waterfront location.
Situated in the suburb of Windang, just 7km from the Wollongong CBD you can enjoy superb views of Lake Illawarra and the surrounding Illawarra escarpment if you choose to live here. The Village is also within easy reach of several nearby beaches, local shops and medical services. So, no matter what you need or want, you’ll never have to travel far for it.
Residents at Jettys enjoy living in maintenance homes, and have access to several different facilities and social activities within the friendly community. The village also incorporates several safety features that ensure seniors can live with the peace of mind they are being well looked after.
Address: 210 Windang Road Windang, NSW, 2528
Phone: (02) 4297 2083
Website: https://hampshirevillages.com.au/our-villages/jettys-by-the-lake/
Southern Cross Care Thirroul Village
For those who enjoy the sound of the surf, this pleasant seaside retirement village in Thirroul is a terrific option.
Each unit here is well set up for comfortable living, providing residents with a kitchenette, ensuite bathroom and patio or balcony that showcases tremendous coastal views. Your family and friends will love visiting you and with plenty of outdoor entertaining areas, plus a community centre, and a
scenic garden, there are several areas where you can socialise with them. You are also just a short walk away from restaurants, shops, the beach and several other recreational activities that can be reached by bus and train.
One of the best aspects of living in this village is that guests can relax knowing they have access to a wide range of optional support services designed to help them live happily and safely. Subsequently, should they ever need extra assistance, there is a 24-hour emergency call system available for them to use.
Ultimately, when you choose a Southern Cross Care retirement community, you’re choosing a lifestyle that’s all about peace of mind, freedom, and living within a supportive community. Like at other places on this list, you won’t have to worry about garden and home maintenance as they take care of everything for you.
Address: 10 Raymond Road Thirroul, NSW, 2515
Phone: 1800 632 314
Website: https://www.sccliving.org.au/our-services/retirement-communities/find-a-community/thirroul-village
Uniting Farmborough Grove
Set within a range of manicured gardens that run along Charcoal Creek, it is easy to see why residents of Uniting Farmborough Grove regard the village as their own piece of paradise.
Along with its picturesque setting, the expansive retirement living community offers spacious villas, each of which comes with modern kitchens, open living spaces and private bathrooms. Moreover, there are plenty of spaces to relax in the sun with a good book, or enjoy the garden and mountain views over a cuppa.
Should you choose to stay in the village you will be able to partake in a range of regular social activities with likeminded individuals. At the same time, if you want to venture out and about the Unanderra train station is not too far away and there are regular bus services from right outside the front of the village. Between them, they could take you to several local attractions, shopping centres and other places of interest.
Address: 66 Waples Road Unanderra, NSW, 2526
Phone: 1800 864 846
Website: https://www.uniting.org/services/retirement-and-independent-living/facility/uniting-farmborough-grove-unanderra
Bishop McCabe Retirement Village (Towradgi)
Bishop McCabe is a reputable and sought-after retirement community offering a vibrant and supportive environment for seniors.
With a focus on promoting active and independent living, Bishop McCabe Retirement Village provides comfortable and modern accommodations tailored to individual preferences.
The village boasts a range of amenities and services designed to enhance residents’ quality of life, including communal spaces, recreational activities, and social programs.
With a dedicated team of staff members ensuring the well-being and safety of residents, Bishop McCabe Retirement Village is a trusted choice for seniors seeking a fulfilling and engaging retirement lifestyle in Towradgi.
Address: 23 Ziems Ave Towradgi, NSW, 2518
Phone: 1800225474
Website: https://www.catholichealthcare.com.au/residence/bishop-mccabe-retirement-village-towradgi/
Warrigal Albion Park
Tucked away on a quiet side street in the suburb of Albion Park is the quaint Warrigal Albion Park retirement village. It prides itself on being a lovely place for seniors to live who want to enjoy serenity and peace within sacrificing connectivity or convenience.
At Warrigal Albion Park, you enjoy easy access to several location attractions, such as the stunning South Coast beaches, shopping facilities, entertainment options, and restaurants. In addition to its prime location, the community offers a comprehensive range of support services to suit every level of care.
Overall, there are 16 garden villas in the village which are all pet-friendly. They feature modern designs and convenient layouts that enable residents to live comfortably in a place that instantly feels like home.
Address: 7-19 O’Gorman Street Albion Park, NSW, 2527
Phone: (02) 4257 4257
Website: https://www.warrigal.com.au/
Anglicare – St Luke’s Village
Nestled at the foot of the picturesque Wollongong escarpment, St Luke’s is a fabulous place to live out your golden years. This beautiful village has spacious gardens and showstopping views and also boasts a strong sense of community, with close ties in particular to the local churches.
If you feel like being active, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can spend time attending a craft class, tending your own vegetable patch, joining an exercise group or playing carpet bowls. The village also hosts regular trivia nights and has a nice barbecue area where residents can entertain family and friends.
St Luke’s offers spacious and bright accommodation, which includes self-contained, two-bedroom units and duplex, free-standing villas, all of which come with lounge areas, modern kitchen and dining spaces.
Moreover, the village has a bus and links to public transport that provide easy access to local parks, markets, shops and medical facilities. Nearby, there are bowling and golf clubs that residents can also take advantage of.
Address: St Lukes Retirement Village, 4 Lindsay Evans Place, Dapto NSW 2530
Phone: 1300 111 278
Website: https://www.anglicare.org.au/seniors/retirement-living/locations/dapto/
Warrigal Lake Illawarra
The community at Warrigal Lake is a serene and beautifully landscaped haven that offers affordable eco-friendly initiatives all year round.
Centrally located, with the beach and shops just a short walk away, the village is an excellent place for those looking to explore a bit further – a convenient bus stop is located right at the front of the village, making traveling easy and hassle-free. You can also access a comprehensive home services support package.
The village offers 30 coastal villas in a prime location, perfect for those seeking an active and engaging lifestyle. With Warilla Grove shopping centre, pristine beaches, and scenic level walking tracks around the lake all within walking distance, it’s a gateway to convenience and recreation. The village brings together like-minded individuals in a secure and welcoming environment.
In addition, you’ll find a good range of engaging programs and activities to participate in, along with a wide range of services and amenities, shopping, and entertainment options.
Address: 1-7 Grove Circuit Lake Illawarra, NSW, 2528
Phone: 1800 626 670
Website: https://www.warrigal.com.au/location/warrigal-lake-illawarra/
Uniting Lakeview Shellharbour
Are you on the hunt for a charming retirement living destination by the seaside? Look no further than Shellharbour.
The village offered by Uniting Lakeview coomprises 25 existing villas and 78 new independent living apartments, which are defined by their modern designs and well-appointed amenities.
In addition, the community offers extensive gardens and a clubroom where residents can socialise. It includes a gourmet kitchen, fire pit, bar and library, while those wanting to enjoy sportier pursuits are able to practice on the putting green or play a game of bocce. The tranquil gardens also make a lovely place to stretch their legs.
The village has a convenient location, that offers everything you need just a few minutes away. This includes public transport, the Shellharbour Hospital and Stockland Shellharbour. Additionally, the community prides itself on being pet-friendly, and has plenty of space for your extended family to stay.
Address: 19 Wallaroo Drive Shellharbour, NSW, 2529
Phone: 1800 864 846
Website: https://www.uniting.org/services/retirement-and-independent-living/facility/uniting-lakeview-shellharbour
