They will form part of an urban development program – known as Discovery Rise – on JCU’s Douglas campus (pictured). It will also feature student accommodation, young care and retirement living together in a “village-type setting.”

A 10- to 20-year project, it is expected to be home to 8,000 residents and 1,300 students.

Other Australian universities are following this trend to incorporate retirement and aged care living into their campuses due to the potential for increased profit – as more affluent residents who live near the university campus can pay higher home prices and elect to participate in, and pay for, casual courses.

La Trobe University last year revealed plans with architect ThomsonAdsett for its own $400 million healthcare hub featuring a 240-bed aged care facility.