Review of Shire-Owned Retirement & Community Housing
About this project
Council is reviewing the future management of Shire-owned retirement and community housing facilities. The purpose of this review is for Council to gain a better understanding of the long-term requirements and potential operational, financial and governance impacts involved in continuing to own and manage these facilities.
IMPORTANT: No decisions have been made to sell, transfer or change management of any facility – this is an investigation only.
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More Information & FAQs
Which facilities are being reviewed?
The review includes three (3) Shire-owned facilities, as listed below. Each of these facilities have different legal, financial and management arrangements, which means they may need to be considered through different pathways.
Preston Retirement Village
A retirement village where residents occupy units under a lease-for-life arrangement.
Minninup Cottages and Langley Villas
Established through separate joint venture arrangements with the Department of Communities, both precincts provide social housing where residents occupy units under a residential lease agreement.
Why are we doing this?
Like many local governments, the Shire is facing increasing regulatory, financial, governance and asset management responsibilities associated with owning and managing housing facilities.
The review will help Council understand whether current arrangements remain sustainable and whether other future management options may better support residents, the community and the long-term interests of the Shire.
The review also supports Council’s commitment to helping older people age in place, supporting housing diversity, improving community wellbeing and ensuring responsible governance.
Progress – check here for updates
At the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 28 May 2025, Council requested a review of the Shire's current approach to managing its retirement and community housing facilities.
The review is being undertaken in stages. This allows Council to gather information, consult with residents and stakeholders, consider future options, and make official decisions through formal Council meetings.
This section will be updated as key milestones are reached.
Stage 1 – Background Research & Preliminary Assessment (completed)
- Council workshops to review of current facility operations, financial performance and asset management requirements.
- Assessment of legislative, governance and regulatory obligations.
- Identification of key risks, challenges and opportunities.
- Obtained initial legal advice.
Stage 2 – Resident Consultation (completed)
- Consult with residents regarding future management arrangements.
- Understand legislative and contractual constraints.
- Develop evidence-based pathways for Council consideration.
- Conduct resident survey.
Stage 3 – Council Consideration & Next Steps (in progress)
- Assess outcomes of resident survey.
- Items for Council direction:
- Commence discussions with Department of Community regarding Minninup Cottages & Langley Villas.
- Undertake Expression of Interest (EOI) process for Preston Retirement Village.
Additional Information & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Council selling any of these facilities?
No. Council is currently exploring a range of management options, but no decisions have been made about selling, transferring or changing ownership of any facility.
This is an investigation only, and the information gathered will be used to inform any future decisions and strategic planning.
Will residents have to move out or pay more rent?
No. This is a review of the management of the housing facilities only, and there are no immediate changes to current living arrangements, rent, fees or charges. Any future decisions would consider resident rights and protections.
Will residents be consulted?
Yes. Council will be consulting with residents as part of this process. This will include:
- Information sessions
- Opportunities to provide direct feedback
- Ways to raise concerns or ask questions
When will a decision be made?
On behalf of Council, the Shire is currently in the investigation and consultation phase of this review, with findings and options for consideration to be presented at a future Council meeting. Before any decision is made, Council will:
- Gather detailed information.
- Consult further with residents.
- Carefully consider all available options.
This page will be updated as further information becomes available as this project progresses.