The 2025 Property Council Retirement Outlook was a day of fresh thinking, shared insight and well-deserved recognition for the retirement living sector. We at Centennial Living were delighted to be involved. It was a celebration of the people shaping the future of retirement living in Australia and the evolving ideas behind what makes a village feel like home.
Derek McMillan on What Retirement Living Should Really Look Like
One of the day’s highlights was hearing from our CEO, Derek McMillan. As one of the keynote speakers, Derek spoke honestly about what older Australians are looking for these days. And, no surprise, it’s not just a roof over their heads.
Derek painted a picture of retirement that’s centred around connection, flexibility and purpose. He spoke about how villages should be more than comfortable homes; they should be places where people feel like they truly belong. Think gardens to wander through, walking paths to enjoy, and welcoming community areas where neighbours can gather for coffee, a quiz or a casual chat.
It’s those small moments — the chats, the laughter, the friendships — that turn a village into a real community.
Celebrating Vivianne Italiano: A Warm and Well-Deserved Nomination
Another proud moment for our team came when Vivianne Italiano, one of our wonderful Sales Managers, was named a finalist for the Property Council Retirement Living Sales Manager for 2024/2025.
If you’ve met Vivianne, you’ll understand why. She has a natural warmth and a thoughtful, caring approach that puts people at ease. Whether someone is just beginning to think about retirement living or they’re ready to make the move, Vivianne is there to listen, to guide and to support.
So many residents have shared how much they appreciated her calm, no-pressure style. Her recognition at the event was a lovely way to acknowledge the care she brings to her work and the difference she makes to so many families.
The Conversations That Mattered
The event wasn’t just about awards. It also sparked some important conversations around where retirement living is headed. From housing trends to financial wellbeing and integrated care, the panels and speakers tackled the big topics.
One thing was clear — older Australians today want more than the traditional idea of retirement. They want to stay active, stay connected, keep learning and have more say in how they live their lives.
At Centennial Living, this isn’t a new idea. It’s been our focus for years. We believe that retirement should be rich in experiences and full of opportunities to connect with others. Whether it’s joining a group class, planting something new in the garden or having a cuppa with a neighbour, community life should feel natural, welcoming and real.
Looking Ahead, Staying Grounded
What stood out at the Retirement Outlook was the shared belief that we’re not just building villages. We’re creating communities. And for that to work, we need to listen to people. Understand their needs. And create spaces that give them the freedom to live on their own terms.
Hearing Derek speak and seeing Vivianne acknowledged reminded us why we do what we do. At the heart of Centennial Living is a simple idea — retirement should be a time to feel at ease, stay connected, and enjoy life with the people around you.
That focus remains even as we continue to grow and welcome new residents. We want our communities to be warm, safe and alive. A place to be yourself, be supported, and live life to the fullest. Whether you need peace and quiet or a lively social calendar, we built communities where people come first. Contact us to arrange a tour or to attend the next Open Day.
