A Vision for Culturally Inclusive Aged Care: Pearl Life Care Meets with Hornsby Shire Council
Pearl Life Care Inc. presents Sri Lankan Retirement Village concept to Mayor and Council Leadership
HORNSBY, NSW – In a significant milestone for culturally inclusive aged care in Sydney’s North West, the Board of Pearl Life Care Inc. (PLC) met today with the leadership of Hornsby Shire Council to advance its pioneering Sri Lankan Retirement Village concept.
The delegation was led by Board Chair Ms. Nalika Padmasena OAM and Board Secretary Mr. Don Ravi Iddamalgoda, who had the privilege of meeting with His Worship the Mayor of Hornsby Shire, Cr Warren Waddell, Deputy Mayor Cr Sallianne McClelland, and Cr Verity Greenwood.
The meeting, described as warm, productive and highly encouraging, was held at Hornsby Shire Council Chambers.
More Than Bricks and Mortar – A Village with Heart
Ms. Padmasena OAM presented the mission and vision of Pearl Life Care Inc. – to create Australia’s first purpose-built, culturally sensitive retirement village for the Sri Lankan Australian community, while being inclusive and welcoming to all.
“Our vision is not just to build houses for our elders, but to build a home where language, food, faith, music and respect for our elders are understood,” Ms. Padmasena explained. “We want our seniors to age with dignity, surrounded by community, in a place that feels like home.
“Mr. Iddamalgoda outlined the urgent need. With the Sri Lankan Australian population ageing rapidly, many seniors face isolation, language barriers, and a lack of culturally appropriate care options. PLC’s model – which caps the Departure Management Fee (DMF) at 25% for fairness – is built on the principle of compassionate, affordable, community-led care.
A Search for Land, A Promise of Partnership
The main purpose of the meeting was to seek Council’s guidance and support in identifying a suitable land parcel within the Hornsby Shire and surrounding North West Growth Area to build the village.
The Council leadership responded with great enthusiasm for the community-led initiative.
Deputy Mayor Sallianne McClelland and Dr Verity Greenwood engaged deeply on planning pathways, community needs, and how a project of this nature aligns with Council’s vision for diverse, inclusive and age-friendly communities.
In a moment that encapsulated the spirit of the meeting, Mayor Warren Waddell offered a heartfelt endorsement, stating that he looks forward to coming to cut the ribbon once the village is built.
“It was a very successful meeting. The Mayor’s promise to cut the ribbon is not just a gesture – it is a vote of confidence in our community and our elders,” said Mr.
Iddamalgoda. “We left Hornsby Shire Council feeling supported, encouraged, and more determined than ever.
“What’s Next?
Pearl Life Care Inc. is now actively assessing several land opportunities, including substantial R3 Medium Density Residential zoned sites in the North West corridor suitable for a seniors living precinct.
The organization is calling on community members, philanthropists, and partners who share its vision to join this historic journey.
About Pearl Life Care Inc.
Pearl Life Care Inc. is a not-for-profit Incorporated Association based in NSW, dedicated to developing a retirement village that honours Sri Lankan culture while providing world-class aged care standards. The project is community-funded and community-led.
For media enquiries, partnerships, or to register your interest: Pearl Life Care Inc.
Email: info@pearllifecare.com.au
Contact: Board Secretary – Don Ravi Iddamalgoda
Photo Caption for Magazine:
Pictured: (L-R) Deputy Mayor Cr Sallianne McClelland, Pearl Life Care Inc. Board Chair Ms. Nalika Padmasena OAM, Dr Verity Greenwood, Hornsby Shire Mayor Cr Warren Waddell, and Pearl Life Care Inc. Board Secretary Don Ravi Iddamalgoda at Hornsby Shire Council Chambers.
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