The aged care complex was sold in December to Catholic Healthcare and on Friday, an official "ceremony of transfer" featured prayers and lighting of candles.

David Maher, the managing director, of Catholic Healthcare said plans for the future of the 65-year-old complex included an on-site cafe and community meeting hub.

Health and wellness centres are also being planned for Catholic Healthcare's facilities.

Scott Oehm, chairman of The Haven board, said now the sale was completed the group - renamed the Opening Doors Foundation - was looking to develop a 2.5-hectare of land into low-cost residential housing for seniors and working with other community organisations in Wagga.

The project is in the early stages of planning, Mr Oehm said.

Shane McMullen, the CEO of The Haven since 2001, will remain at the helm of the Bourke Street complex for some months during the transition period, but in the longer term will return to the Opening Doors Foundation.

"For The Haven, nothing has changed from the residents' point of view," he said.

"It's been a very smooth transition."