Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family, Marrickville Seniors Housing

26551

14/04/2026

Object

Email

Hi I am pleased to forward a submission regarding the above matter on behalf of the named signatories, all affected residents. I look forward to your acknowledgement of receipt and to the Commission’s determination. Regards Greg San Miguel P.S Please note that the condition sought in para 9 on page 5 is for the affirmation as to structural integrity be given before works commence.

Submission to IPCN 260414 v101.pdf (PDF, 366.53 KB)

26511

New South Wales 2204

01/04/2026

Object

Website

Thank you for your consideration of my objection. Please see submission and images attached.

ID 26511 Elizabeth McNamara_Redacted.pdf (PDF, 301.94 KB)

26501

New South Wales 2203

30/03/2026

Object

Website

I do not believe that the allocation of parking spaces caters sufficiently for staff and visitors, especially during staff handover. The suggestion that sufficient staff will utilise "nearby" Marrickville metro station seems to ignore the poorly lit and unused route.

26356

New South Wales 2203

26/03/2026

Object

Website

The evaluation states : “supports State government priorities to deliver well-located housing by delivering a 100-bed RCF to meet the changing needs of an aging population in an accessible location in Marrickville” but the introduction of proposal states: The Applicant proposes the demolition of an existing 54 bed residential care facility (RCF), known as ‘Village 1’, potential remediation and construction of a 4-storey, 100-bed RCF located at 28 Marrickville Avenue, Marrickville” The fact is that only 46 additional beds are being provided, not 100. With up to 50 jobs being created, 35 car spaces and 9 bicycle spaces are not adequate for the number of staff, let alone visitors to the aged care facility, of which many themselves may be elderly. 800 metres to Marrickville Train Station and 700 metres to Dulwich Hill train stations is too far, especially at night and the route to Marrickville Station is via Arthur Street which is not safe. There are no buses to Marrickville station and The Transport Impact Assessment (TTIA) only recommends walking. Transport NSW’s trip planner also only gives walking as a way to get to Marrickville Station from Marrickville Avenue. Council’s new parking strategy, if implemented, will mean that available street parking will be even more limited in the future, thus making it almost impossible for staff who don’t live near the facility, to park legally. Visitors will think twice about coming if there is no parking and in particular if they are elderly themselves. Visitors play a very important role in the well-being of the elderly.

25826

Redacted

09/03/2026

Object

Website

Objections are as follows, Social benefits are significantly overstated for the site location. 1. The site is stated as being “well connected” but has no access to rail or light rail. Given the cul-de-sac nature of the sight, the proximity to public transport is extremely misleading, requiring significant circling through backstreet to access rail. Access by car is through single access road, choked during school pick up, with insufficient onsite (8 spots). This means there’s an expectation that overflow use minimal street parking to accommodate visitors, which is likely filled on high-volume weekend visiting hours due to nearby church for weddings and event services that were not captured during the traffic survey. The only public transport access is a bus to Martin Place, with no connection to rail, by cracked and uneven footpaths. Hardly, “well connected”. This total lack of access to the site is exemplified by the School cutting additional access point through the heritage boundary wall. How can a site with so little access be considered safe for egress of aged care residents or enable an effective response from emergency services. 2. The development is described as in a “familiar community setting”. There’s an abandoned age care facility that has been for sale for 2+ years on the corner of Harney street and Marrickville road, approximately 100 meters from the proposed site and in the same community that has better access, connection to public transport and appropriate zoning. Moreover, justification for the proposed site aligns with the Marrickville road site, but additionally, doesn’t require tree removal, have no adjoining properties, would maintain a low rise and alleviate privacy concerns, and enable uplift of bed capacity. 3. The development is stated as “aligning with zoning controls”. How can a 4+ storey development align with residential zoning? There is no precedent in the area for its justification nor one that has such impact on wall at the site and surrounding heritage conservation residential areas. The Response to Submission (RTS) Report, 1. Despite over 100 complaints, no changes have been submitted, and only minor design refinements have been proposed. This highlights the continuing contempt for the local communities’ concerns and farcical and targeted community engagement attempts by the proponent. 2. Objections to the size and scale of the development has been raised by multiple government agencies, which unanimously state that insufficient justification has been provide for a development of such magnitude with little consideration to low scale residential adjoining the site. The proponent has “increased setbacks”, yet impact is still moderate at the lowest impact neighbouring properties. The ‘building form and design are compatible with nearby residential develop”, how can it be compatible is there are no precedent for a development of such scale and design? “The proposal has moderate impact due to the retention of the heritage wall”, how can a 2–3-meter wall and tree removal conceal a 4-storey building. None of these measures address the concerns of neighbouring properties. Frankly such a development will set a precedent for further high-rise development overlooking the school grounds. 3. The proponent is still actively pursuing a rooftop terrace on a 4-story building in a low-density, low-rise, residential area, which due to tree removal will enable aged care residents, staff and visitors to overlook neighbouring properties, even with design controls. Leaving the proponent to enforce that only 10 people access the roof and only 5 people are speaking at one time is laughable. Rooftop terraces are intended to be a site of congregation and often the locations for parties and celebrations. Even the proponent acknowledges this as a “rooftop leisure area” and a “separate recreational zone”. It sounds like the intended use will be a fundamental daily activity and management already plans to ignore “management protocol” and the 10 people limit. With over 100 residents, 30+ staff and 50 – 100 visitors, noise should be modelled for the worst-case scenario as “management protocols” need to be assumed ineffective as their effect on noise was not and cannot be assessed. Ensuring that a “Plan of Management” is a condition of approval doesn’t assess the effectiveness of that plan, which is the goal, to minimise noise and avoid invasion of privacy. All gatherings should be confined to the internal courtyard, and the rooftop terrace should be abandoned entirely. 4. The proponent states there is no relationship between Village 1 and 2, “no movement of care staff between Village 1 and Village 2”, but overlapping construction dictates that “the need to relocate residents from Village 1 to Village 2”. Seems like there’s substantial plans for shared staffing, facilities and accessible access paths between villages will need to be assessed. Significant congestion on Wardell road around school pickup will force students into Marrickville avenue, further increasing congestion. Apparent management control measures cannot be assessed for their effectiveness and must be assumed ineffective. 5. The proponent acknowledges a “moderate” visual impact to surrounding residents. However, this is determined from Marrickville avenue, yet tree removal and substantial overlooking of neighbouring properties will be greatest in Challis and Pine street. The impact assessment is flawed as it focuses on the lowest impact neighbouring properties. 6. The traffic and transport impact assessment bases several critical assumptions on a survey of employees. Approximately, 40% of staff (28 to 50 people) drive, yet 25 parking places are available to staff (14 – 25 people). This suggests that during shift change, if insufficient spots are available, staff will park in the street overnight, unlikely to move their car during their shift. Further to the issue, 8 parking places are made available to estimated 22-39 extra vehicle trips visitors. The report also asserts that the travel patterns are unlikely to change, despite the metro development closing rail, essentially removing a major public transport access mechanism and further increasing staff reliance on cars/site parking. Given the poor public transport access, distribution off staff usage of public transport, this is a significant shortfall of available parking that hasn’t been addressed and will be absorbed by the local community. I strongly object to the development of the proposed site as the impact and safety are dramatically understated and based on biased data, and a in agreement with all government agencies that the development is uncharacteristic of the low-density and low-rise residential area..

26546

Maronite Catholic Society Australia

Redacted

14/04/2026

Support

Website

This proposal would be a valuable asset to the community, particularly given the ageing population and the growing demand for such services. The Sisters have built a strong and trusted relationship within the community, and their operations are consistently supportive and compassionate. They have always been attentive and responsive to the needs of those they serve. I fully support the proposal by the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family for the Marrickville Seniors Housing project.

26536

New South Wales 2000

13/04/2026

Support

Website

We are at a pivotal moment in human history. Advances in medical science have extended life expectancy, placing an urgent responsibility on our society to ensure that essential infrastructure, particularly aged care, accommodates this trend. In Australia, this challenge is no longer theoretical. The Australian Medical Association has identified serious and growing shortages in aged care facilities across Sydney, warning that the current system is already under strain and will be increasingly unable to meet demand in the years ahead. Against this backdrop, the proposed redevelopment of the Marrickville Village is not simply desirable - it is necessary and time-critical. Failure to approve this redevelopment would mean turning away from a clear and pressing need. It would exacerbate existing shortages, place further pressure on already stretched services, and limit access to high-quality care for some of the most vulnerable members of our community. With an operational history spanning more than three decades, the Maronite Sisters have demonstrated a proven commitment to delivering holistic, inclusive, and high-quality care. Their longstanding openness to serving individuals of all backgrounds and faiths reflects the diversity of Sydney itself. Over the past decade, we have entrusted several of our own family members (none of whom are Maronite) to their care. The compassion, professionalism, and dignity afforded to them have been exemplary, and we have not hesitated to recommend the Maronite Nursing Home to others facing the difficult transition into aged care. While the standard of care remains exceptionally high, the realities of contemporary aged care necessitate environments that can support evolving technologies and best practices. The redevelopment of the Marrickville premises is therefore vital to ensure the facility remains competitive and capable of meeting modern standards. In addition to improving care delivery, the project will generate employment across multiple sectors, including construction, healthcare, and administration, thereby contributing positively to the local economy. Modern aged care is no longer limited to accommodation and basic medical support. Aged care encompasses thoughtfully designed environments that promote dignity, independence, accessibility, safety, and meaningful community engagement. The Maronite Sisters are acutely aware of this shift and are seeking to create a facility that reflects these values. Without redevelopment, even providers of the highest calibre risk falling behind contemporary expectations and the needs of an ageing population. Thus, the redevelopment is not merely an upgrade of physical infrastructure, but a necessary investment in the future of aged care in Sydney. While redevelopment proposals can give rise to concerns regarding impacts such as traffic, noise or scale, these considerations must be weighed against the significant and urgent social need for expanded aged care capacity. With appropriate planning and design, such impacts can be effectively managed and mitigated, whereas the consequences of inaction (continued shortages and reduced access to essential care) cannot. At its core, this development is about people - our parents, grandparents, siblings and loved ones. These are people who deserve to age with dignity in an environment that feels like home. Based on my firsthand experience of the care provided by the Maronite Sisters, I have every confidence that this redevelopment will continue and strengthen that legacy. Supporting the Maronite Sisters’ proposal is ultimately a reflection of the kind of society we aspire to be: one that honours and cares for its elderly and vulnerable with compassion, respect, and humanity. To conclude, the redevelopment of the Maronite Nursing Home in Marrickville clearly aligns with the broader public interest by addressing an essential and well-documented community need, while representing an efficient and appropriate use of land for social infrastructure. For these reasons, I strongly support and unequivocally urge the approval of the Marrickville Village redevelopment without delay.

26541

Redacted

13/04/2026

Support

Website

As a medical specialist in aged care, I suport the development proposal. The Maronite Sisters have an excellent reputation of delivering high quality aged care, and already run other nursing home facilities. At a time when there is an increasing requirment for aged care beds, this would be a valuable addition to the local services. As the Marrickville area undergoes an ageing demographic change, the proposed facility will allow locals to remain in a familiar environement and remain in touch with family and friends.

26531

Andalus Arabic Choir

Redacted

12/04/2026

Support

Website

Dear Commission Panel et al, I write in support of the proposed redevelopment of the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family Village at 28 Marrickville Avenue, Marrickville (194-210 Wardell Road), also known as Village 1 and identified in the Council as - Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family Marrickville Seniors Housing State Significant Development Assessment Report (SSD 69377980). I am the director of the Andalus Arabic Choir, a non-profit multicultural organisation. I had the chance to meet the CEO, the nuns and staff of the above nursing home when my choir performed music and songs to the elderly on multiple occasions since 2014 (photo attached). Two of my elderly relatives, as well as grandparents of members in my choir, were residents at this nursing home for many years. I would like to acknowledge that our relatives and other elderly were very well looked after physically, medically, mentally and emotionally. They were clean and ate healthy food. Staff were very friendly with them as well as with visitors. The CEO of this institution, Sister Elham Geagea, is a hardworking person, who’s vision and aims to serve our elderly with the best care is limitless. I attach a photo of our old uncle Mr. Jury cutting his birthday cake with the nuns and his colleagues after my choir’s performance. I am a member of the Australian society in Greater Sydney who is planning to be placed one day at this nursing home. It would be beneficial to see it redeveloped, updated with new facilities and accommodating a larger number of elderly so those in need can find a place in Village 1. It would also be great to see 50 jobs become ongoing. My family and I, strongly support this application and hope that the Commission Panel gives it the chance to see the light and develops into an accomplished project for our society to benefit from at all levels.

Binder1_Redacted.pdf (PDF, 3.13 MB)

26521

New South Wales 2204

11/04/2026

Support

Website

Dear Commissioners, I write in strong support of the Development Application submitted by the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family for the redevelopment of their aged care facility. I am a General Practitioner who has worked closely with the Maronite Sisters for over 20 years. Through this long-standing professional relationship, I have witnessed firsthand their unwavering commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care to elderly members of our community. Their work is deeply rooted in their mission, established since their arrival in Australia in 1968, to serve through education, aged care, and spiritual support, always responding to the evolving needs of the people they serve. Australia is facing a significant demographic shift, with a rapidly growing ageing population, particularly among those aged 85 and over. This trend is placing increasing pressure on aged care services and highlights the urgent need for expanded and improved residential care facilities. The current infrastructure at the Maronite Sisters Village is no longer adequate to meet modern standards of care. Redevelopment is essential to provide contemporary, safe, and dignified living environments, including single rooms, home-like settings, and enhanced infection control measures. From a clinical perspective, the environment in which elderly people live has a direct impact on their physical and mental wellbeing. Modern, purpose-built facilities significantly improve quality of life, reduce health risks, and support better care outcomes. The proposed redevelopment aligns with best practices in aged care and will enable the Sisters to continue delivering care at the highest standard. In addition to the clear healthcare benefits, this project offers substantial community value. It will increase access to much-needed aged care services, particularly for vulnerable elderly individuals, and enable residents to remain connected to their families, cultural identity, and local community. The Maronite Sisters are widely recognised as a trusted, not-for-profit provider, known for culturally responsive care and strong community integration. The development will also contribute economically by generating employment opportunities during both the construction and operational phases. It will support workforce development in a sector that is currently experiencing significant shortages, thereby strengthening the broader healthcare system. Beyond its immediate function, this project represents an important investment in social infrastructure. The Maronite Sisters play a vital role in fostering community cohesion and supporting not only residents but also their families. While all developments require careful consideration, I firmly believe that the public interest in this case far outweighs any potential concerns. The social, medical, and community benefits are substantial, while the overall impact is relatively low compared to other forms of development. For these reasons, I strongly urge the Independent Planning Commission to approve this Development Application. This redevelopment is both necessary and evidence-based, and it represents a critical step in addressing the needs of Australia’s ageing population - now and into the future. Thank you for your consideration of this submission. Yours sincerely, Dr Sarkis Douaihy MD, FRACGP.

26526

New South Wales 2040

11/04/2026

Support

Website

I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed redevelopment of the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family Village in Marrickville. As the manager of the pharmacy that has proudly supplied this facility for almost 40 years, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the exceptional level of care and dedication the Maronite Sisters provide to their residents. Personally, I have been involved with the service for the past 20 years, and it holds a very special place in my heart. This connection is not only professional but deeply personal. My grandfather was a resident at the facility for many years until his passing in 2013. During that time, my family experienced the compassion, dignity, and respect that the Sisters extend to every individual in their care. It is a place that truly understands the importance of community, culture, and belonging. The proposed redevelopment represents a vital investment in the future of aged care within the local and Maronite community. A modern, purpose-built facility will ensure that elderly individual, particularly those who are frail and vulnerable, can continue to receive high-quality care in an environment that supports their independence, dignity, and well-being. Importantly, this development will allow residents to remain close to their families, cultural connections, and support networks, which is essential to their quality of life. The inclusion of thoughtfully designed living spaces and community areas reflects a progressive approach to aged care that aligns with the needs of today’s ageing population. I strongly believe that the Maronite community, and the wider local community, deserve a facility that upholds these values and continues the longstanding mission of the Maronite Sisters. I fully support this redevelopment and encourage its approval so that this important service can continue to care for future generations with the same compassion and excellence it has demonstrated for decades. Thank you for considering my submission.

26516

New South Wales 2206

02/04/2026

Support

Website

Dear Commissioners, I write in my capacity as President of the Board of Trustees of the World Lebanese Cultural Union (WLCU), an international non-governmental organisation dedicated to strengthening cultural ties, supporting communities, and promoting social wellbeing. On behalf of our organisation, I wish to express our strong support for the Development Application submitted by the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family for the redevelopment of their aged care facility. The Maronite Sisters have a long and respected history of service in Australia since their arrival in 1968. Their mission—grounded in care, compassion, and community engagement—has significantly contributed to the wellbeing of countless families, particularly within the Lebanese and broader multicultural communities. Their work in aged care reflects not only professional excellence but also a deep understanding of cultural and spiritual needs. Australia’s ageing population is growing rapidly, especially among those aged 85 and above. This demographic reality brings with it an urgent need for modern, high-quality aged care services. The proposed redevelopment directly responds to this need by replacing outdated infrastructure with contemporary facilities designed to meet current standards, including improved safety, infection control, and a more dignified, home-like living environment. From a community perspective, the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family Village plays a vital role in preserving cultural identity and social connection for elderly residents. It enables individuals to remain close to their families and maintain meaningful ties to their heritage, language, and faith—elements that are essential to their overall wellbeing. The proposed development will also deliver broader social and economic benefits. It will increase access to aged care services, support vulnerable members of the community, and create employment opportunities both during construction and ongoing operations. Furthermore, it will contribute to workforce development in a sector that is currently under significant strain. As a trusted, not-for-profit organisation, the Maronite Sisters have demonstrated their ability to deliver high-quality, culturally responsive care while fostering strong community integration. Their continued presence and growth are of great importance not only to the Lebanese community but to Australian society as a whole. In our view, the public interest is clearly served by this proposal. The benefits—social, cultural, economic, and healthcare-related—are substantial and far outweigh any potential concerns. We respectfully urge the Independent Planning Commission to approve this Development Application and support the Maronite Sisters in continuing their essential mission in a modern and appropriate facility. Thank you for your consideration.

WLCU Maronite Sisters_Redacted.pdf (PDF, 267.95 KB)

26421

New South Wales 2204

29/03/2026

Support

Website

I have recently become aware of the proposal for the construction of the improved amenity at the Holy Family site between Marrickville Avenue and Wardell Road in Marrickville. I have been a local resident residing less than 300 metres from the site for most of my life (75 years). The Maronite Sisters have occupied the site, in my memory for over 50 years. I don't think there can be any dispute that they have been good neighbours in the local community, offering the local and broader community a vitally essential community service. My mother was a resident of the Holy Family facility for 4 years before she passed away in 2015 at the age of 96. I have six siblings and we all visited my mother regularly. We have nothing but the greatest admiration for the care and good management provided by Sisters Elham and Clara when my mother was there and they continue that wonderful work to the present day. I have also visited friends and acquaintance at the Holy Family facility over the years, the facility is well run with an emphasis on supporting patients in every aspect of their lives in their final years. I have perused the objections to the proposed improvements and they appear to relate predominantly to matters of self interest from the objectors. As our community continues to grove and evolve, the need for high quality, accessible aged care services becomes increasingly important. The proposal represents a thoughtful and much needed investment in supporting older members of our community, allowing them to remain connected to familiar surroundings, local services and their social networks. The location in Marrickville is particularly well suited for such a development. It offers proximity to public transport, medical facilities , services and community amenities, all of which are essential in maintaining quality of life and independence, and dignity for residents. Enabling older people to remain within their local area, rather than relocating far from family and friends, is a significant social benefit. In addition to meeting a critical community need, the development has the potential to contribute positively to the local area through job creation, increased economic activity, and the strengthening of community ties. Overall, I believe tis project represents a responsible, compassionate and forward-thinking response to the needs of an aging population. I strongly encourage its approval and progression. Thank you for the opportunity to provide my support for this important proposal.

26301

New South Wales 2060

26/03/2026

Support

Website

Written Submission in Support of Development Application Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family Village - Residential Aged Care Facility I write in strong support of the development application submitted by the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family for the demolition of the existing nursing home and the construction of a new 100-bed, four storey residential aged care facility, including one level of basement parking. This project represents a significant and much-needed investment in the provision of high-quality aged care services within our community. The proposed development will not only modernize existing facilities but also substantially increase their capacity, enabling more elderly residents to access safe, dignified and compassionate care in a purpose-built environment. My support is not only based on the merits of the proposal but also on a deeply personal experience. Both my mother Helen and my brother Farid have been in the care of the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family for many years. During this time, I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary dedication, kindness, and compassion with which the sisters and staff care for those entrusted to them. They are, in every sense, angels of compassion – providing not only professional care, but also comfort, dignity, and genuine love. The Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family Village have a long-standing and proven history of service, particularly in caring for the elderly with deep compassion, cultural sensitivity, and a strong sense of community. Their commitment to holistic care – addressing physical, emotional and spiritual needs – make them uniquely positioned to deliver a facility that truly enhances the wellbeing of its residents. The proposed development also brings important economic and social benefits. It is expected to generate up to 110 jobs during the construction phase and approximately 50 ongoing operational roles once completed. These employment opportunities will contribute positively to the local economy and support families within the broader community. In addition, the design of a contemporary, well planned aged care facility will ensure improved living conditions for residents, compliance with modern standards, and the ability to meet the growing demand driven by an ageing population. For these reasons, I strongly and wholeheartedly support the approval of this development application. It is a project grounded in compassion, experience, and genuine care for the community, and it will continue the vital mission of the sisters for generations to come. Dr Roda Kanawati

26316

Kingsgrove St George Community Aid Centre Inc

New South Wales 2208

26/03/2026

Support

Website

Please see uploaded file.

Submission in Support of Development Application.pdf (PDF, 331.41 KB)

26096

New South Wales 2170

22/03/2026

Support

Website

Subject: Submission in Strong Support –for the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family Village Redevelopment (SSD 69377980) To the Independent Planning Commission, I write to provide a formal and strongly evidence-based submission in support of the proposed redevelopment of the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family Village at 28 Marrickville Avenue / 194–210 Wardell Road, Marrickville (SSD 69377980). I provide this submission both from a professional and personal perspective. I am currently a Regional Manager within the aged care sector, responsible for overseeing the delivery of care to elderly Australians. In addition, my first role as a nurse in Australia was with the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family. This dual perspective provides me with a clear understanding of both the operational realities of aged care and the specific value this organisation brings to the community. 1. Demonstrated and Increasing Demand for Aged Care Australia’s population is ageing at a sustained and measurable rate. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicates that approximately 16–17% of the population is currently aged 65 years and over, with projections exceeding 20% by 2066. The population aged 85 years and over,the cohort most likely to require residential aged care, is growing at the fastest rate. Furthermore, the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety identified critical gaps in capacity, infrastructure, and quality, highlighting the urgent need for expansion and modernisation of residential aged care services. In practical terms, this translates to increasing waitlists, higher acuity residents, and growing pressure on existing facilities. Developments such as this are not optional, they are necessary to meet current and future demand. 2. Replacement of Outdated Infrastructure with Contemporary Care Models The existing facility, now over 30 years old, does not meet modern expectations for aged care environments. Contemporary standards, supported by the Australian Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, require: • Single occupancy rooms with private ensuites • Smaller, home-like living environments • Enhanced infection control design • Improved accessibility and safety features The proposed redevelopment directly aligns with these requirements, delivering a 4-storey facility with 99 bedrooms (100 beds), organised into smaller household-style clusters. This model is evidence-based and associated with improved resident outcomes, including better mental health, reduced behavioural symptoms, and enhanced dignity. 3. Critical Social Infrastructure and Community Benefit This proposal represents essential social infrastructure with clear and measurable public benefits: • Increased access to residential aged care for high-needs individuals • Support for ageing in place within familiar communities • Accommodation for vulnerable elderly populations, including pensioners From an operational perspective, proximity to family and cultural networks is a key determinant of resident wellbeing. Facilities such as this enable continuity of identity, language, and cultural practices factors that significantly improve both resident and family outcomes. Importantly, this is not just a residential facility, it is a holistic support system for families. It provides reassurance, stability, and peace of mind to relatives who rely on professional care to support their loved ones. 4. Economic Contribution and Workforce Development The redevelopment delivers tangible economic benefits: • Approximately 110 construction jobs • Approximately 50 ongoing operational roles Beyond these figures, aged care providers such as the Maronite Sisters are significant employers within the community. They provide stable employment to hundreds of staff over time, enabling individuals and families to sustain their livelihoods. In addition, the organisation contributes to workforce development by supporting student placements and training opportunities, helping to build the future aged care workforce in Australia, an area already identified as critically under-resourced. 5. Proven Provider with Community Integration The Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family have operated since 1991 and have established themselves as a trusted, not-for-profit provider. Their model of care is deeply rooted in: • Cultural responsiveness • Individualised care delivery • Community connection From my own experience working within this organisation, it is evident that their services extend beyond basic care provision. They create an environment that truly feels like home for residents, while simultaneously supporting families through what is often a difficult life transition. 6. Broader Community Role and Vitality It is important to recognise that the value of this organisation extends beyond aged care service delivery. It plays a vital role in: • Supporting local employment • Strengthening community networks • Providing culturally appropriate care options • Contributing to education and workforce pipelines This makes the organisation not only a care provider, but a critical community institution. 7. Planning Balance and Public Interest While community concerns are a normal component of the planning process, decisions must be grounded in evidence and public interest. Aged care developments typically generate lower impacts in terms of traffic and disturbance compared to many other development types, while delivering disproportionately high social value. When assessed objectively, the net community benefit of this proposal is substantial and clearly outweighs potential concerns. Therefore, the proposed redevelopment is: • Strategically necessary • Evidence-based and aligned with national priorities • Supported by demonstrated demand • Delivering significant social, economic, and community benefits Based on both my professional expertise and personal experience, I strongly support this development and urge the Independent Planning Commission to approve the application. This project is not simply a building replacement, it is a critical investment in Australia’s ageing population, workforce sustainability, and community wellbeing. Yours sincerely, (Redacted)