James barker House
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army’s James Barker House (JBH) is a 120-bed Residential Aged Care Centre in Footscray, providing 24-hour care for older individuals facing homelessness, substance use challenges, or mental health conditions. To better meet resident needs and comply with modern standards, JBH is undergoing a major redevelopment to replace its aging, institutional layout with eight smaller, household-style units that offer a safer, more home-like environment.
Accuraco was engaged early to manage the grant application and lead the concept design phase. This involved assembling and coordinating a team of architects, engineers, and urban planners to deliver interim Concept Design and Cost Estimate packages ahead of schedule, ensuring alignment with stakeholder expectations and budget requirements. Accuraco went on to lead the detailed design and contractor tender process, with a head contractor appointed in late 2025 and construction commencing in early 2026. The works are being delivered in stages to keep the facility operational throughout, with the first stage new centralised kitchen, dining and living spaces, resident laundry and outdoor balcony areas servicing two households which was completed in August 2026. Accuraco continues to provide construction superintendency through the remaining stages of this transformative project, which will significantly enhance resident care and quality of life
