Vasey RSL Care opens 20 affordable homes for veterans in Melbourne
Vasey RSL Care has opened a new affordable housing development in Bundoora, delivering 20 purpose-built homes for veterans as part of efforts to address rising housing insecurity.
Veterans in Melbourne’s north now have access to 20 new affordable homes, with Vasey RSL Care officially opening a purpose-built housing development in Bundoora.
The single-storey units, located on Tower Avenue adjacent to the organisation’s residential aged care facility, were designed to respond to growing demand for stable and appropriate housing for veterans. The issue is particularly acute, with veterans estimated to be almost three times more likely to experience homelessness than the general population.
Construction was completed in late December 2025, allowing residents to move in just before the festive season. For many of the new tenants, the timing meant starting the new year with something many Australians are struggling to secure: a safe, stable place to live.
Beyond simply providing accommodation, the development has been designed to support connection and long-term wellbeing. Positioned alongside existing services and support networks, the homes form part of a broader model aimed at creating stability and community for residents.
Chief Executive Officer Janna Voloshin said the project marked a significant milestone for the organisation.
“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 development comes at a time when Australia’s national housing shortage continues to place pressure on vulnerable groups, including former service personnel.
The Bundoora project was fully funded by Vasey RSL Care and forms part of the organisation’s broader commitment to tackling veteran homelessness and housing insecurity through long-term solutions.
Ms Voloshin said the initiative also aligns with national efforts to increase affordable housing supply.
“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.”
Victorian Upper House Member for the North-Eastern Metropolitan Region Sonja Terpstra attended the opening and praised the role of not-for-profit organisations in addressing housing shortages.
“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, which worked closely with Vasey RSL Care to bring the development to life.
George Costas from Costas Constructions said projects like this demonstrate the social impact the construction sector can help deliver.
“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 official opening was attended by local RSL representatives, residents, staff, the Victorian Veterans Council and community partners.
Vasey RSL Care said it will continue advocating for greater investment in affordable housing for veterans and plans to work with government and community partners to expand similar initiatives as demand continues to grow.