Our History

The philosophy and culture of ECH Inc was shaped by our founder, Mr Garnet E Rundle – a visionary who recognised the need for affordable retirement housing for older South Australians, especially war widows. In 1964 Mr Rundle placed an advertisement in The Advertiser seeking expressions of interest to form an organisation to help the elderly. Initially, five people responded and from that meeting Elderly Citizens Homes of SA Inc was registered as an incorporated association on 2 July 1964. The foresight and humanity of this small group has evolved into a diversified organisation today, offering support to more than 5,300 older South Australians.

Like all associations, ECH was established for the benefit of the people who use its services. ECH has no share-holders and under its constitution, all profits generated since 1964 have been re-invested into improving the services we provide. This has resulted in a high level of security for our residents and clients.

Since 1964, the vision of ECH  "To enhance the quality of life of the ageing"  has guided our growth as a not-for-profit, charitable organisation to become one of the largest integrated providers of retirement accommodation and aged care services in South Australia.

We provide more than 1650 affordable independent retirement accommodation units in over 90 locations throughout Adelaide and Victor Harbor plus seven residential care centres with 750 low and high care places serving the ongoing needs of frail aged South Australians. Our community support programmes assist older persons to maintain their independence at home.