Future-proof retirement: Experience sustainable, independent living in Canberra's north

An exciting new chapter has begun at The Grove in Ngunnawal. The first residents have now settled into the village’s Stage 1 villas, and work has progressed on one of the most significant sustainability milestones in Australian retirement living.

Developed by Keyton, the thriving community has quickly become sought after by over-55s seeking long-term liveability in Canberra’s north. Stage 1, comprising 15 independent living units, is now complete and sold out, with residents already immersing themselves in village life.

According to Keyton’s ACT senior development manager Sarah Forbes the response from new home owners has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Stage 1 residents have settled into their new homes and are actively building friendships with new and existing residents,” she says. 

“They’re enjoying the numerous village activities, such as water aerobics in the indoor heated pool, and testing out their vocals in the village choir group. There’s already a warm and welcoming atmosphere.”

One of the most impressive updates at The Grove is the village’s Passive House villa. According to Forbes, this is the first Australian home within a retirement community designed to be certified to rigorous performance-based Passive House standards.

“Passive House requires a standard of design and construction that can achieve a high level of energy efficiency in operation and minimal loads for heating and cooling,” she says.

The result? A home that stays comfortable year-round, with constant mechanical ventilation of fresh air, significantly reduced noise, and substantially lower energy consumption. 

“It’s not just energy efficient, it’s healthier, quieter and easier to maintain,” Forbes says.

The Passive House villa – along with the remaining 29 villas and homestead – is set for completion in early 2026.

Beyond the landmark Passive House, sustainability is embedded throughout the entire development.

“All villas have been designed to achieve an average NatHERS rating of 7.2 stars, exceeding the minimum code requirement,” Forbes says. 

“Each villa includes a 4.5-kilowatt solar PV system and a rainwater tank for landscaping.”

The Grove also contributes to Keyton’s 5-Star Green Star Communities rating, reflecting its environmental contribution to the local area.

Central to the project’s design philosophy has been ensuring residents can age comfortably and confidently in their homes.

“All villas are thoughtfully designed to allow easy modifications for adaptable living requirements,” Forbes explains. 

“This includes step-free pathways and showers, wide corridors and garages fitted with 15-amp powerpoints for residents who own, or who may one day own, an electric vehicle.”

Demand for quality retirement living options in the ACT continues to rise quickly. Between now and 2040, the number of Australians aged over 75 is expected to increase by 70 per cent.

“There is a large undersupply of retirement homes in the ACT compared to local demand,” Forbes says.

Purpose-built communities such as The Grove, she says, will play an increasingly important role in easing pressure on hospitals and aged care facilities while delivering much-needed housing diversity.

With its blend of community, sustainability, and innovation, The Grove is poised to remain one of Canberra’s most forward-thinking retirement villages.

$1,173,500

The Grove Ngunnawal, Ngunnawal ACT 2913

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At a glance

The Grove

Monty Place, Ngunnawal

Village open hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm

Sales: Keyton, Rob Rowe 1800 550 550

EER: 7

Feature we love: The thoughtful designs that allow for easy modifications to accommodate future living requirements.

From the developer: “All villas have been designed to achieve an average NatHERS rating of 7.2 stars, exceeding the minimum code requirement.”