Lutheran Homes Group continues Victorian expansion with major acquisition in Mildura

Adelaide-based aged care provider Lutheran Homes Group (LHG) is continuing its interstate expansion with the acquisition of Mildura Gardens Retirement Village, strengthening its presence in regional Victoria. 

The retirement community, which includes 87 independent living units, a community centre and two large parcels of land for future development, will become Lutheran Homes Group Mildura. 

The acquisition increases LHG’s resident numbers to more than 2,000 people and its workforce and volunteer base to over 1,500, as the organisation continues its rapid growth across South Australia and Victoria. 

Located in the heart of the Sunraysia region, Mildura is a thriving regional community experiencing strong investment across infrastructure, housing and services. The broader region supports about 90,000 people, with about 30 per cent of residents aged over 55, creating strong demand for quality retirement living and aged care services. 

LHG Chief Executive Officer Tim Chia said the acquisition reflected the organisation’s commitment to supporting regional communities while expanding its footprint in Victoria. 

“Mildura is a vibrant and growing regional centre with significant investment happening across the region,” Mr Chia said. 

“With a growing and ageing population, it is important that regional communities have access to high-quality retirement living and aged care close to home. 

“We have already had the opportunity to spend time in Mildura and meet some of the wonderful residents and members of the community. It has been incredibly welcoming, and we look forward to building strong relationships and becoming part of the local community.” Mr Chia said the Mildura site provided strong foundations for future development. 

“The village offers contemporary accommodation and fantastic community facilities; and with significant parcels of vacant land within the gated community, there are many opportunities for future growth,” he said. 

The acquisition follows LHG’s recent expansion into Victoria, with sites in Horsham and Hamilton adding 134 residential care beds, 184 independent living units and 170 staff to the group in June 2025.   

The growing not-for-profit also operates sites in Fullarton, Glynde, Hope Valley and Para Vista in Adelaide. 

As the aged care sector navigates ongoing reform, including new care standards and legislative changes, Mr Chia said LHG was well positioned to lead through continued investment and innovation. 

The Mildura acquisition was supported by Adelaide mergers and acquisitions firm Equity & Advisory. 

The Lutheran Homes Group story began almost 100 years ago. Since then, we have strived to become a leader in the provision of home and community support, retirement living and residential care services, prioritising the wellbeing of residents and staff.