Stonepeak has announced a major investment in the Queensland-based retirement developer Aura Holdings. The specialist infrastructure firm is providing a capital injection that totals up to A$1 billion when combined with a development facility from local lenders. This funding is intended to drive the next stage of growth for Aura and support its large pipeline of upcoming projects.

Based in Brisbane, Aura Holdings was established in 2016 by Tim Russell and Mark Taylor. The company is currently led by Chief Executive Officer Sean Graham. It focuses on building modern retirement apartments and community hubs in popular urban areas. To date, the firm has finished six villages consisting of nearly 800 units in southeast Queensland. The company has six more projects coming up soon and another ten in the early stages of planning.

This deal represents Stonepeak’s second platform investment in the retirement sector across Australia and New Zealand. It follows the firm’s purchase of Arvida Group Limited in November 2024. Arvida is one of the largest providers of aged care and retirement living in New Zealand.

“We are pleased to partner with the Aura team and utilize our flexible, long-term capital to expand Aura’s development platform by executing on their significant pipeline of new retirement village projects,” said Darren Keogh, Senior Managing Director at Stonepeak. “Aura is well-positioned to serve Australia’s retirees given its premium portfolio spanning desirable retirement destinations, proven development track record, and experienced leadership team, who bring a deep understanding of what matters most to seniors.”

Aura Co-Founder Tim Russell stated, “We are delighted to welcome Stonepeak as our capital partner in this exciting new chapter for Aura. Stonepeak see the value in a first-class and growing operating platform.” He added that the investment provides the necessary space to increase the supply of housing for people looking to downsize in areas where options are currently limited.

“Stonepeak’s long-term approach to partnering and working with its portfolio companies, deep experience and relationships in the retirement sector, and clear plan for value creation give us tremendous confidence in Aura’s future. Together, we are poised to continue setting the standard in retirement living in Australia,” added Sean Graham. The transaction has already been completed although specific financial terms were not made public.