Barwon Water has reversed the corporate outsourcing trend, establishing a company to bring maintenance services back in-house.
Barwon Asset Solutions would also seek “further opportunities” servicing other organisations and businesses, the water authority announced.
Chair Jo Plummer called the move into business an “exciting example of Barwon Water’s new entrepreneurial approach”.
The new “100-per-cent-locally-based” company would take over from previous Barwon Water maintenance provider Perth-based Programmed Facilities Management (PFM). All existing PFM employees transferred to the new company last Saturday, Barwon Water said.
The changeover ensured that “local skills, knowledge and experience are retained in our region”.
“Once services are consolidated, the intention is to expand Barwon Asset Solutions and seek further opportunities in the region.
“This will include providing high-quality customer emergency response, smart infrastructure, civil, mechanical and electrical maintenance, and infrastructure project delivery. It will combine modern technologies with a pro-active approach to solving issues and providing exceptional customer service.”
Ms Plummer said the new company would “support Barwon Water’s vision of enabling regional prosperity” as an “investment in our region’s future”.
“It is also an exciting example of Barwon Water’s new entrepreneurial approach to delivering high quality, affordable secure water services.
“Establishing Barwon Asset Solutions will ensure local based employment opportunities, training and the most efficient and cost effective way of delivering Barwon Water’s maintenance service for our customers.
“Our vision is for Barwon Asset Solutions to partner with local businesses and agencies in delivering services and in turn drive positive regional outcomes.”
Barwon Water said the changeover would be a “seamless transition”, with customers able to continue reporting emergencies and faults on 1300 656 007.
