Access to safe, affordable housing is one of the most powerful ways to transform lives. For many South Australians, it’s the difference between surviving and thriving. 

That’s why UnitingSA’s newest community housing development, Uniting on Second, is such a significant step forward. Rising eight storeys in the inner-city suburb of Bowden, the $37 million development is set to deliver 70 new affordable homes, creating opportunities for people who have struggled to find secure housing in an increasingly competitive market. 

A lifeline for those locked out of the market 

The new apartments are designed for people on low to moderate incomes, including essential frontline workers, students, and small families who are increasingly being priced out of the rental and purchase markets. 

Of the 70 apartments, 24 have been sold through the HomeSeekerSA initiative, helping eligible buyers take their first step into home ownership. The remaining 46 apartments will be available for affordable rent, with prices capped at 75% of the market rate – including four purpose-built Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) homes designed for people living with disability. 

Speaking at the project launch, UnitingSA CEO Jenny Hall said the development is about more than bricks and mortar: 

“Access to safe and affordable housing gives people the foundations they need to build better lives. That is why what we’re doing here matters so much,” Jenny said. 

“We’re not just constructing buildings – we’re building communities where people can thrive,” she added. 

Left to right: Jenny Hall, CEO, UnitingSA, Senator Karen Grogan, Nick Champion, Minister for Housing and Urban Development – South Australia, Ben Moore, Chief Development, Property & Housing Officer, UnitingSA.

Driving social and environmental impact 

Uniting on Second also represents a shift toward sustainable, future-focused housing. The complex is targeting a 5 Star Green Star rating, powered by renewable energy and designed for energy and water efficiency to reduce both environmental impact and household costs for tenants. 

The project has received support from the Federal Government’s Housing Australia Future Fund, reflecting the importance of partnerships in tackling the national housing shortage. 

In another Australian first, Uniting on Second is the first development to participate in Kennett Builders’ Material Bank – a circular construction initiative cataloguing materials so they can be re-certified and reused in future projects, extending their life and reducing waste. 

Future resident, Harry.

Strengthening communities, one home at a time 

When Uniting on Second is completed in early 2026, UnitingSA’s housing portfolio will grow to more than 500 homes across South Australia – each one contributing to stronger, more connected communities. 

This development comes after earlier in the year, UnitingSA unveiled Uniting on Devonport, a $15.9 million medium density housing development to offer enhanced community living for South Australians on low to moderate incomes. 

As UnitingSA continues to expand its ambitious housing initiatives, the organisation remains focused on a simple but powerful mission: to ensure everyone has a safe place to call home and a fair chance to thrive.