Geelong-based profit-for-purpose genU has announced its acquisition of one of Western Australia’s leading disability service providers.
WA organisation Activ will merge with genU through a progressive 12-month process beginning this month.
The acquisition will see genU’s reach expand within WA, where it already operates with its Matchworks employment services and training course delivery.
Chief executive Clare Amies said the merger was “an exciting opportunity”.
“Coming together puts us in an even stronger position, financially and influentially, to meet the opportunities and challenges in the disability support sector now, and into the future,” Ms Amies said.
“We will be engaging with all internal and external stakeholders as we integrate our organisations. We want to make sure that customers’ voices are heard and that we take the opportunity to improve and enhance services across Australia.”
Board Chair Ingrid Williams said the boards of both organisations had been through a considered decision-making process to ensure the merger was the right fit now and for the long term.
Ms Williams is confident the best decision has been reached after careful contemplation of all the factors.
“We feel comfortable and positive about the merger and what it will bring for Australians living with disability,” Ms Williams said.
“The genU Board has undertaken a rigorous due diligence process to identify the many benefits the union will create, while understanding some of the recent challenges and issues both organisations have faced.”
Ms Williams welcomed Activ’s Trevor Hunt and Michelle d’Almeida, who will take up positions on the genU board.
“Trevor and Michelle’s expertise, experience and perspective will be a valuable contribution to genU, as we enter this exciting new era,” she said.
Following the merger genU will employ more than 5500 people across Australia, making it one of the five largest disability services providers in the country.
