On Monday 2 March, Vasey RSL Care officially opened 20 new affordable housing units in Bundoora, delivering safe, secure homes for veterans at a time when Australia is facing a significant housing crisis.
Located in Tower Avenue, Bundoora, adjacent to the organisation’s Residential Aged Care facility, the single-storey units have been purpose-built to respond directly to the growing demand for affordable and appropriate housing for veterans, a cohort almost three times more likely to experience homelessness than the general population.
Construction was completed in late December 2025, with residents moving in just before the festive season. For many, it meant welcoming the New Year with a secure roof over their heads and a place to truly call home.
More than just housing, the development has been designed to foster connection, stability and community. Positioned alongside existing services and support networks, the homes form part of an integrated model that prioritises long-term wellbeing.
Chief Executive Officer Janna Voloshin said the opening marked a proud and significant milestone for the organisation and its partners. “Stable housing is the foundation of wellbeing and growth,” Ms Voloshin said.
“These homes represent much more than buildings – they provide security, dignity and a fresh start for veterans and their families. At a time when housing affordability is out of reach for many Australians, we are proud to deliver practical solutions that directly respond to the needs of those who have served our nation.”
The national housing crisis continues to place enormous pressure on vulnerable groups, including veterans. The Bundoora development was fully funded by Vasey RSL Care and forms part of the organisation’s broader commitment to addressing veteran homelessness and housing insecurity through long-term, sustainable solutions.
Ms Voloshin said the project aligns strongly with the Australian Government’s housing priorities and national efforts to increase the supply of affordable housing. “We are very hopeful of accessing support through the Housing Australia Future Fund to enable us to expand our affordable housing program. The demand is clear, but we cannot do it alone.”
Upper House Member for North-Eastern Metropolitan Region Sonja Terpstra attended the opening and commended the organisation’s leadership in responding to veteran housing need.
“Not-for-profit organisations like Vasey RSL Care play a critical role in delivering housing solutions where they are needed most,” Ms Terpstra said. “This development demonstrates what can be achieved when mission-driven organisations step forward to meet community demand. Ensuring veterans have access to safe, affordable housing is fundamental to honouring their service and supporting their future.”
The project was delivered by Costas Constructions, whose team worked closely with Vasey RSL Care to bring the vision to life. “We are passionate about projects that create lasting social impact,” George Costas from Costas Constructions said.
“Contributing to high-quality, affordable housing that provides security and stability for veterans has been a privilege for our team. Developments like this show how the construction sector can help strengthen communities.”
The opening was attended by local RSL representatives, residents, staff, the Victorian Veterans Council and community partners, reflecting the shared commitment to expanding housing options for veterans across Victoria.
Vasey RSL Care continues to advocate for increased investment in affordable housing for veterans and remains committed to working collaboratively with government and community partners to grow its support and meet rising demand.
About us:
Vasey RSL Care:
Vasey RSL Care is Australia’s leading provider of ex-service accommodation, care and support, providing veteran-specific services to around 1000 ex-service people of all ages each year, and employing over 750 clinical, care support, veteran services staff and volunteers.
Services include rental units (social housing) for over 320 veterans, war widows and partners at eight city and three regional locations; home care provisions for older Australians wishing to remain in their own home; and residential aged care at four locations – Brighton, Brighton East, Bundoora and Frankston South and The V Centre Veteran Empowerment Program located in Ivanhoe, Victoria.
Contact details:
Heidi Flower, Government Relations and Media Adviser, Vasey RSL Care
M: 0436 609 385