Southern Cross Care (QLD) Inc. was established in 1967 as Southern Cross Homes (QLD) by the Order of the Knights of the Southern Cross. The initiative reflected the Order's desire to provide quality services to all members of the community according to need and based on the principals of charity, compassion and respect for the dignity of the individual. Southern Cross Care provides independent living (self-care) units, supported living apartments, nursing homes, hostels and special care cottages at various locations throughout Queensland for those members of the community who have reached retirement age. These residential options are complemented by wide-ranging Outreach (community) services which enable people to remain living independently for extended periods.