The SA Housing Trust is undertaking a staged renovation of Bentzen Court in Gilberton to improve safety, amenity and long-term site management.

Originally built in 1970, the complex is being upgraded to give tenants and the surrounding community confidence that the homes are cared for and contents are being upgraded to improve amenity for long-term use.

What’s happened so far

Over 2025, the Trust took steps to stabilise and improve Bentzen Court:

• Safety and site management measures were strengthened, including increased security presence and improved oversight.
• Landscaping and horticultural improvements were completed, with ongoing maintenance now scheduled every six weeks.
• Letters were issued to tenants and neighbouring residents in August and September 2025 outlining site upgrades and safety improvements.
• In December 2025, the Minister for Housing and Urban Development announced a full renovation of Bentzen Court, confirming the Government’s long-term commitment to the site.

These actions were undertaken in response to longstanding community concerns and to support improved safety and liveability.

Improvements in 2026

Site improvements are underway and scheduled for completion by mid-2026, including:

Communal areas

• Upgrades to laundry rooms, including new washing machines and secure keypad entry doors.
• Demolition of selected outdoor laundries and outbuildings to improve sightlines and security.
• Upgraded fencing along the Walkerville Terrace and James Street boundaries.

Security measures

• Improved lighting in foyers and shared outdoor areas
• Installation of CCTV across the site
• 24/7 security with arrangements to be reviewed as needed.
• Upgrading boundary fencing with durable, anti-climb materials.

Ongoing maintenance

• Regular horticultural maintenance.
• Regular site clean-ups of communal areas, laundries, foyers, stairwells and car parks.

Planned for late 2026 - 2027

Bentzen Court will undergo a major renovation to upgrade homes and reset the site for the future. Planned works include:

• the safe relocation of remaining Tenants prior to refurbishment works. The Trust will provide full support services to assist.
• the upgrade of 32 homes. Works will include new kitchens and bathrooms, internal laundries, better lighting, upgraded fencing and improved pathways to create safer and more liveable environments.
• improved safety, amenity and long-term management arrangements, including the opportunity to re-set the tenancy mix.

Construction hours

Approved construction hours for works are:

• 7.00am - 7.00pm Monday to Saturday
• 8.00am - 4.00pm Sunday and public holidays (where applicable)

In most cases, construction activity is expected to occur between approximately 7:00am / 7:30am and 5:00pm Monday to Friday. Saturday works are expected to be infrequent and will generally only occur where required for specialised trades or to maintain project progress.

The SA Housing Trust will work to minimise disruption to tenants and neighbouring residents wherever possible during construction.

Local residents will be notified of works, including any disruptions ahead of time.

Further information will be updated on this page as key milestones are reached.

Stay informed

We encourage tenants, neighbours and community members to stay engaged, share feedback and reach out with any questions or concerns, so we can continue working together toward a safer and more positive Bentzen Court for everyone.

Contact us: 131 299 ☏

Share your feedback: Complete our Questions and Feedback Form

Learn more: Download the latest Q&A Fact Sheet

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