Real Estate
18 December, 2025
Tower brings hope
A NEW six-storey high social housing project at Westcourt aims to provide accommodation for at least 80 senior and single women over 55.
Access Community Housing has lodged a development application (DA) for an 80-unit social and affordable housing development at 271 Gatton Street, Westcourt with Cairns Regional Council.
Access chief executive officer Aidan Lang said the aim was 60 one-bedroom and 20 two-bedroom apartments with the organisation seeking funding for the project. “The final mix of social and affordable housing will be determined through the funding process,” he said.
“The design has a strong accessibility focus, with 16 apartments proposed at platinum level under the Liveable Housing Design Guidelines and the remainder at gold level.
“Safety and amenity are built into the design, including controlled access and CCTV, landscaped communal outdoor spaces with shared barbecue facilities, a community garden and the flexibility to incorporate a shared residents’ space and/or site office, subject to final approvals.”
Access has secured a 30-year lease of the site from the council.
“Council’s support in making land available for housing is an important part of meeting local need,” Mr Lang said.
“The location is well-placed to support seniors and single women over 55, with key services and community supports nearby, including Meals on Wheels, the Cairns and District Senior Citizens Association and various aged-care facilities. It is also close to shopping at DFO and sits on a public bus route, helping residents stay connected to everyday services and the broader community.
“Cairns is facing strong housing demand across social, affordable and private markets, with a significant social housing need.
“This development is designed to deliver a meaningful number of secure, accessible homes for seniors and single women over 55.
“Older women are one of the fastest-growing cohorts experiencing homelessness and developments like this help provide the long-term housing stability that allows people to age safely and remain connected to their community.
“The scale of the proposal reflects both the level of need locally and the suitability of this site for a well-managed, medium-density housing outcome.
Mr Lang said the DA had been lodged and would now progress through council’s statutory assessment process.
“The overall timing of the project will depend on securing funding and we are currently exploring funding opportunities,” he said.
“Subject to approvals and funding confirmation, the intention is to move to detailed design and procurement as soon as possible after the DA process is completed.”
