When Costco opens its doors in this part of Oz by 2027, it won't just be another shopping destination.
It could be a game-changer for seniors across Melbourne's southeast, offering everything from bulk buying savings to accessible shopping experiences that many local stores simply can't match.
The American retail giant's $74 million warehouse and fuel station at 130 Greenhills Road in Pakenham promises to deliver the same member-only pricing and services that have made Costco a favourite among budget-conscious shoppers.
The prominent corner site on Greenhills and Koo Wee Rup roads is slated to open in 2027, adding to the retail giant’s expanding Victorian footprint alongside its $118m Ardeer flagship and major suburban hubs at Ringwood, Epping and Moorabbin.
The membership question—is it worth it for retirees?
Let's talk numbers first. Costco's Gold Star Membership costs $65 per year, while the Executive Membership runs $130 annually. The Executive option includes a 2 per cent annual cashback reward of up to $1,000 on qualified purchases—potentially worthwhile if you're spending more than $6,500 yearly at Costco.
Here's the reality: Costco doesn't offer senior discounts on membership fees as of 2025. However, for seniors managing tight budgets, the long-term savings on everyday essentials can still make membership worthwhile, provided you shop there frequently enough to justify the annual cost.
The bulk buying model works particularly well for non-perishables like household goods, medications, and frozen foods. For smaller households, consider sharing bulk purchases with family or neighbours to maximise value.
'Our Pakenham warehouse will offer members exclusive access to a range of quality brand-name merchandise at the best possible prices'
Shopping without commitment—the Costco Shop Card trick
Not ready to commit to annual membership? There's a clever workaround. Costco Shop Cards can be loaded with any amount between $25 to $999.99 and used in-store, but you'll need a current member to purchase the card for you. While you can't use these cards online or at fuel stations, they're your golden ticket to Costco's in-store deals.
This option lets you test the waters before committing to membership, perfect for seniors who want to see if the savings justify the annual fee.
Accessibility that actually works
One of Costco's standout features for senior shoppers is its commitment to accessibility. Electric handicap scooters are available on a first-come, first-served basis (call ahead to reserve one), and manual wheelchairs with detachable carts are provided complimentary.
Costco employees can accompany and assist solo shoppers upon request, and designated wider parking spaces are located near entrances. The store features specialised shopping carts designed to assist individuals with mobility issues, bridging the gap between limitation and independence.
Costco accessibility features for seniors
Free motorized shopping carts (first-come, first-served)
Manual wheelchairs with shopping cart attachments
Personal shopping assistance on request
Wider accessible parking spaces near entrances
Service animal accommodation
Wheelchair-accessible store layout
Getting there won't break the bank
The Pakenham location's positioning near the heart of Pakenham's industrial estates south of the highway offers excellent transport links. Victorian seniors are eligible for a free Seniors myki card and 50 per cent discount on public transport, making the trip from across the southeast surprisingly affordable.
The Pakenham train line has 25 stations with approximately 69 minutes total trip duration from Flinders Street, connecting the area to Melbourne's broader transport network. The upgrades to the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines will make rail travel easier, faster and more reliable for Melbourne's southeast.
For those driving, the location offers direct freeway access, though expect significant traffic when it first opens—similar to the gridlock experienced at Ardeer's launch. Ardeer opened in April with a 16,000sq m warehouse and Australia’s largest Costco fuel station with 38 pumps, drawing thousands on opening day but also gridlocking nearby Ballarat Rd and the M80 Ring Rd.
Smart shopping strategies for seniors
Experts recommend reserving equipment and services ahead of time, bringing a pre-planned shopping list to minimise walking, loading heavy items last in your cart, and taking occasional breaks on motorized carts.
Disability advocates suggest 'visiting Costco at opening time on weekdays to have the pick of motorized carts before crowds arrive'. The stores also stock mobility aids including foldable wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and walking aids designed for maximum mobility without compromising quality.
Costco shopping tips for seniors
- Visit on weekday mornings for less crowding and equipment availability
- Call ahead to reserve mobility assistance
- Bring a detailed shopping list to minimize walking
- Consider bulk buying for non-perishables and household items
- Load heavy items last in your trolley
- Take advantage of the pharmacy and optical services for additional savings
The bigger picture—transforming southeast Melbourne
Commercial property experts are already seeing the ripple effects. Reports from the Department of Transport and Planning and Melbourne Water are expected later this month, though excitement is brewing despite permits still being far from confirmed.
Colliers Melbourne East national director Gordon Code said Costco’s decision to add Pakenham to its network was a clear sign of the retailer’s ambitious growth strategy.
'Costco is a destination retailer. People drive for miles, and the moment they commit to a site the phone runs hot from businesses wanting to be beside them. Costco looked at multiple sites, but this one wins hands down, direct freeway access and even a natural gas connection, which is critical when you’re baking, roasting and preparing food at Costco’s scale,' Mr Code said.
He added that the ripple effect of Costco’s arrival was already clear, with Colliers Melbourne fielding a surge of enquiry from businesses eager to position themselves shoulder-to-shoulder with the global retailer.
'Look at Moorabbin. Costco anchors Goodman’s Chifley Business Park, and rents in that pocket are about 20 per cent higher than anywhere else. That’s the halo effect.'
Ringwood, which welcomed Costco in 2013, saw a similar lift in commercial demand, while Docklands (opened in 2009 and closed this year) became an anchor for its precinct before being sold for $100m and transformed into a $92m state-of-the-art medical hub.
'I’d fully expect Pakenham to follow the same playbook. Costco’s arrival will turbocharge commercial property values across the precinct,' Mr Code said.
He described the investment as a 'vote of confidence' in Victoria at a time global players were choosing their next foothold. 'Victoria offers a compelling mix, sustained population growth, a deep consumer base and competitive operating costs relative to Sydney. Global retailers like Costco aren’t making these decisions lightly. They see Melbourne expanding eastward and outward, and they want to be at the centre of that growth.'
For seniors, this development promises more than just another shopping option—it offers accessible, affordable shopping with services specifically designed for older customers' needs, all while contributing to the economic growth of Melbourne's southeast.
Read more: Costco opens massive new warehouse this week—‘Get in quick’ for exclusive deals!
What are your thoughts on Costco coming to Pakenham? Are you planning to make the trip once it opens, or do you have experience with other Costco locations that might help fellow members decide if membership is worth it?
Original Article
https://www.realcommercial.com.au/n...pJQfbvWeKBCSnZreeg_aem_gC18Z_9lJl9unhiFijQSjg
Permit still undetermined despite Costco Pakenham expected in 2027 | Pakenham Officer Star News
Cited text: The US retail giant has applied for the site of 130 Greenhills Road in the heart of Pakenham’s industrial estates south of the highway.
Excerpt: $74 million warehouse and fuel station at 130 Greenhills Road
https://pakenhamnews.starcommunity....ned-despite-costco-pakenham-expected-in-2027/
Permit still undetermined despite Costco Pakenham expected in 2027 | Pakenham Officer Star News
Cited text: “Our Pakenham warehouse will offer members exclusive access to a range of quality brand-name merchandise at the best possible prices, as well as a ran...
Excerpt: $74 million warehouse and fuel station at 130 Greenhills Road
https://pakenhamnews.starcommunity....ned-despite-costco-pakenham-expected-in-2027/
Save with Costco Australia Coupons & Promo Codes—Up to 70 per cent per cent OFF in 17.Aug.2025
Cited text: For personal use, the Gold Star Membership ($65/year) provides global warehouse access and a free Household Card. For added value, the Gold Star Execu...
Excerpt: Costco's Gold Star Membership costs $65 per year, while the Executive Membership runs $130 annually
https://costcoaustralia.orangeoffer.com/
Costco Executive Membership: Features & Rewards | Costco Australia
Cited text: Executive Members receive an annual 2 per cent reward* of up to $1,000 on qualified Costco purchases that can be redeemed in-warehouse Australia‑wide.
Excerpt: a 2 per cent annual cashback reward of up to $1,000 on qualified purchases
https://www.costco.com.au/executive-membership
Costco Membership Fees For Seniors 2025: How Much?
Cited text: Unfortunately, since April 2022, Costco has ceased to offer discounted memberships for seniors (according to Kiro7). Both the Gold Star and Executive ...
Excerpt: Costco doesn't offer senior discounts on membership fees as of 2025
https://www.thefutureworldofwork.org/job/costco-membership-fee-for-seniors/
Costco Membership Fee for Seniors: What You Need to Know | Gerald | Gerald
Cited text: As of 2025, Costco does not offer a specific senior discount on its membership fees.
Excerpt: Costco doesn't offer senior discounts on membership fees as of 2025
https://joingerald.com/blog/costco-membership-fee-for-seniors
Costco Membership Fee for Seniors: What You Need to Know | Gerald | Gerald
Cited text: For seniors managing a tight budget, the long-term savings on everyday essentials can still make a membership a worthwhile investment, even without a ...
Excerpt: for seniors managing tight budgets, the long-term savings on everyday essentials can still make membership worthwhile, provided you shop there frequently enough to justify the annual cost
https://joingerald.com/blog/costco-membership-fee-for-seniors
Discover the secret of shopping at Costco in Australia without a $60 membership! | Seniors Discount Club
Cited text: The secret is using a Costco shop card. These preloaded cards can be filled with any amount between $25 to $999.99 and can be used in-store to make yo...
Excerpt: Costco Shop Cards can be loaded with any amount between $25 to $999.99 and used in-store, but you'll need a current member to purchase the card for you
https://seniorsdiscountclub.com.au/...o-in-australia-without-a-60-membership.23332/
Discover the secret of shopping at Costco in Australia without a $60 membership! | Seniors Discount Club
Cited text: And whilst you may be unable to use these special cards online or at fuel stations, they are most certainly your golden ticket to Costco's in-store de...
Excerpt: While you can't use these cards online or at fuel stations, they're your golden ticket to Costco's in-store deals
https://seniorsdiscountclub.com.au/...o-in-australia-without-a-60-membership.23332/
Costco Motorized Handicap Carts And Wheelchairs In 2025: An In-Depth Guide—ExpertBeacon
Cited text: Some key details: Motorized Carts: Electric handicap scooters are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Call ahead or ask a greeter to reserv...
Excerpt: Electric handicap scooters are available on a first-come, first-served basis (call ahead to reserve one), and manual wheelchairs with detachable carts are provided complimentary
https://expertbeacon.com/costco-motorized-handicap-carts-wheelchairs/
Costco Motorized Handicap Carts And Wheelchairs In 2025: An In-Depth Guide—ExpertBeacon
Cited text: Assistants: Costco employees can accompany and aid solo shoppers upon request.
Excerpt: Costco employees can accompany and assist solo shoppers upon request
https://expertbeacon.com/costco-motorized-handicap-carts-wheelchairs/
Costco Motorized Handicap Carts And Wheelchairs In 2025: An In-Depth Guide—ExpertBeacon
Cited text: Accessible Parking: Designated wider spaces located near the entrance.
Excerpt: designated wider parking spaces are located near entrances
https://expertbeacon.com/costco-motorized-handicap-carts-wheelchairs/
Wheelchair Shopping Cart at Costco | TikTok
Cited text: Did you know that Costco has specialized shopping carts designed to assist individuals with mobility issues?
These carts are made to bridge the gap ...
Excerpt: The store features specialised shopping carts designed to assist individuals with mobility issues, bridging the gap between limitation and independence
https://www.tiktok.com/discover/wheelchair-shopping-cart-at-costco
Seniors—Public Transport Victoria
Cited text: If you're a Victorian senior, you may be eligible for a free Seniors myki and 50 per cent discount on travel, as well as other benefits.
Excerpt: Victorian seniors are eligible for a free Seniors myki card and 50 per cent discount on public transport
https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/myki/concessions-and-free-travel/seniors/
PAKENHAM Route: Schedules, Stops & Maps—East Pakenham (Updated)
Cited text: The first stop of the PAKENHAM train route is Flinders Street and the last stop is East Pakenham Railway Station (Pakenham).
Excerpt: The Pakenham train line has 25 stations with approximately 69 minutes total trip duration from Flinders Street
https://moovitapp.com/index/en-gb/public_transportation-line-pakenham-Melbourne-2803-851984-313837-2
PAKENHAM Route: Schedules, Stops & Maps—East Pakenham (Updated)
Cited text: Additional information: PAKENHAM has 25 stations and the total trip duration for this route is approximately 69 minutes.
Excerpt: The Pakenham train line has 25 stations with approximately 69 minutes total trip duration from Flinders Street
https://moovitapp.com/index/en-gb/public_transportation-line-pakenham-Melbourne-2803-851984-313837-2
Cranbourne and Pakenham line disruptions—Transport Victoria
Cited text: Along with the Metro Tunnel, the upgrades to the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines will make rail and road travel easier, faster and more reliable for Mel...
Excerpt: upgrades to the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines will make rail travel easier, faster and more reliable for Melbourne's southeast
https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/disruptions/disruptions-on-the-cranbourne-and-pakenham-lines/
Costco Motorized Handicap Carts And Wheelchairs In 2025: An In-Depth Guide—ExpertBeacon
Cited text: As experts on shopping with disabilities, we recommend these best practices: Reserve needed equipment and services ahead of time. Bring a list pre-pla...
Excerpt: Experts recommend reserving equipment and services ahead of time, bringing a pre-planned shopping list to minimise walking, loading heavy items last in your cart, and taking occasional breaks on motorized carts
https://expertbeacon.com/costco-motorized-handicap-carts-wheelchairs/
Costco Motorized Handicap Carts And Wheelchairs In 2025: An In-Depth Guide—ExpertBeacon
Cited text: Tina Smith, founder of Disabled Shoppers Network, recommends 'visiting Costco at opening time on weekdays to have the pick of motorized carts before c...
Excerpt: Disability advocates suggest 'visiting Costco at opening time on weekdays to have the pick of motorized carts before crowds arrive'
https://expertbeacon.com/costco-motorized-handicap-carts-wheelchairs/
Shop for Mobility Aids & Walking Aids—Costco Australia
Cited text: From foldable wheelchairs, to mobility scooters and walking aid, these products are designed to provide maximum mobility without compromising on quali...
Excerpt: mobility aids including foldable wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and walking aids designed for maximum mobility without compromising quality
https://www.costco.com.au/Health-Beauty/Mobility-Aids/c/cos_8.6
Permit still undetermined despite Costco Pakenham expected in 2027 | Pakenham Officer Star News
Cited text: Reports into the current Costco application in Pakenham are expected from the Department of Transport and Planning and Melbourne Water later this mont...
Excerpt: Reports from the Department of Transport and Planning and Melbourne Water are expected later this month
https://pakenhamnews.starcommunity....ned-despite-costco-pakenham-expected-in-2027/
Permit still undetermined despite Costco Pakenham expected in 2027 | Pakenham Officer Star News
Cited text: Excitement is brewing as Costco expect its Pakenham warehouse to be open in 2027, but hopes remain reserved as an approved permit is still far from be...
Excerpt: excitement is brewing despite permits still being far from confirmed
https://pakenhamnews.starcommunity....ned-despite-costco-pakenham-expected-in-2027/
Permit still undetermined despite Costco Pakenham expected in 2027 | Pakenham Officer Star News
Cited text: The report reveals the warehouse is expected to open in 2027 within the future Cardinia Logistics Estate.
Excerpt: future Cardinia Logistics Estate
https://pakenhamnews.starcommunity....ned-despite-costco-pakenham-expected-in-2027/
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