What’s happening?
New Stockland research shows a clear wellbeing lift among older Australians living in purpose-built communities, with Redland Bay standing out as a key local example. With one in three locals now aged over 55, the findings land at a time when loneliness is costing Australia an estimated $900 million a year.
Strong demand continues at Stockland’s Halcyon Bayside. The project drew more than 1,000 enquiries and sold 70 per cent of its first 26 homes in the first week of its September release.
Why it matters?
Nearly one in five older Australians report feeling lonely some or most of the time. Stockland’s 2025 Liveability and Wellbeing Survey suggests that community-driven living can play a major role in reversing that trend. Halcyon homeowners are reporting higher life satisfaction, stronger connection and higher confidence.
The results point to a meaningful shift for more than 50,000 Redland Bay residents in the downsizer age bracket.
Local Impact
Redland Bay is one of Queensland’s fastest-growing over-55 areas. Purpose-built communities like Halcyon Bayside show how thoughtful design, neighbour connection and walkability can improve daily life for older locals. The strong buyer interest signals a clear preference for active and connected living close to home.
By the numbers
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Halcyon homeowners record a Personal Wellbeing Index score of 84.7, which is 11.6 points higher than the national benchmark for Australians aged 55 and over, putting them well above the 73.1 average.
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The first release at Halcyon Bayside drew more than 1,000 enquiries, with 70 percent of the first 26 homes sold within a week, showing strong demand in Redland Bay.
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Australia faces an estimated $900 million annual cost from loneliness, adding context to why connection-focused communities matter.
Zoom In
Wellbeing scientist Dr Darren Morton says the data highlights the role of meaningful connection.
“The antidote to loneliness isn’t simply being surrounded by people, it’s having meaningful connection,” Dr Morton said.
“Communities that foster belonging and purpose give people a reason to get up each day with energy and joy. The goal isn’t to retire from life, it’s to rewire it.”
For Halcyon resident and future Bayside homeowner Shirley Moffat, the appeal is simple.
“It’s wonderful to have everything close by so you can walk to activities, stop to chat to neighbours and know that if something did go wrong, there’s always someone nearby and happy to help,” she said.
“I am definitely more social and active than I was before, and I have a lot more confidence too. Although I live on my own, I feel safe walking my poodles at 9pm at night and I’m happy to go to the theatre, play cards or to attend Friday night drinks alone, knowing I will meet people, enjoy the music and even have a dance!”
She added that moving with her long-term neighbours has brought comfort. “We’re all close to 80 and excited to start this new venture together, still living side-by-side. Moving into a Halcyon community is definitely the best move I’ve ever made.”
Zoom Out
The survey shows three major drivers of wellbeing across Stockland’s Halcyon communities: standard of living at 87 percent, personal relationships at 86 percent and safety at 83 percent. Stockland says these results show how good design supports connection and confidence.
Stockland Project Director Glenn Nugent said the Halcyon Bayside vision brings these elements to life.
“What contributes most to wellbeing in our communities is the sense of connection, feeling safe, valued and part of something bigger,” Mr Nugent said.
“Halcyon Bayside is the pinnacle of luxury living for Stockland’s Halcyon brand, designed around wellness, belonging and the incredible natural beauty of the bayside.”
He said the Elements Wellness Centre sits at the heart of that focus, supported by a 1.5-hectare lifestyle precinct and 16.3 hectares of open green space, including a 7.6-hectare private woodland reserve.
“We’re seeing strong interest not only from locals but also from people moving from neighbouring bayside suburbs and even the Gold Coast who are seeking a wellness-focused lifestyle in a bayside community,” he said. “Every element, from The Sailhouse with views to the bay to the magnesium pool overlooking nature, it’s all been designed to support connection and wellbeing. It’s about helping people live well and feel well.”
As Dr Morton put it: “Australians are redefining retirement, asking not where to retire, but how to truly live.”
What to look for next?
Construction at Halcyon Bayside is underway.
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Civil works start in December 2025
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First slabs go down mid-2026
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First residents move in early 2027
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Key facilities open from mid-2027 to 2030, including The Pavilion, Elements Wellness Centre and The Sailhouse
