A significant renovation project is underway for the historic Diment Towers in Wollongong, with the IRT Group investing $45 million into the upgrade. This building, which opened in 1969, was originally funded through community fundraising efforts, including a well-known lamington drive. The redevelopment comes after the closure of the aged care component of the facility in 2022, leaving just 19 residents in independent living units.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, IRT CEO Ross Gallagher emphasized the importance of community support in establishing the facility. “They didn’t start with major funding or government backing; they started with community spirit,” Gallagher stated. He highlighted the various contributions from local businesses and individuals who wanted to create a meaningful space for older residents.
As part of the redevelopment, all residents have been temporarily relocated to other IRT properties and are expected to return once the renovations are completed, projected for early next year. Gallagher noted, “We’ve got them at different sites throughout the Illawarra and we caught up with them before Christmas. They’re all doing really well, and they’re looking forward to moving back in.”
The planned upgrades will include a complete refurbishment of 102 independent living units, featuring a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts. Enhancements will also incorporate landscaped gardens, accessible walkways, and new communal areas, along with an updated facade to enhance the building’s appearance.
Wollongong’s Lord Mayor, Tania Brown, expressed her support for the project, stating that it is encouraging to see IRT reinvest in the building rather than opting for demolition. “Having this facility remain here in Wollongong is wonderful for us,” she said, adding that the land was provided by the Wollongong Council to IRT. “I wish we could keep doing things like that,” Brown remarked.
The Mayor acknowledged the pressing issues of housing and aged care in Australia, noting that it requires collective efforts from local, state, and federal governments. “For IRT to reinvest in Diment, I’m so pleased to see this adaptive reuse of an iconic Wollongong building, giving it a glow up,” she added, highlighting the vital role such facilities play in the community.
As the renovation progresses, the anticipation among former residents is palpable. Many have expressed a desire to return to Diment Towers, where they have long-standing connections. Gallagher indicated that the preference is to welcome them back to their upgraded homes, and he believes that once they see the finished product, they will be eager to move in.
The Diment Towers renovation represents not only a significant financial investment but also a commitment to preserving a crucial community resource that has served Wollongong for over five decades. The project underscores the importance of local support in ensuring the continued care and accommodation of older residents.
