Independence Australia Group Pty (IAG) and Statewide Autistic Services (SASI) are pleased to announce our discussion about joining forces are proceeding with both Boards approving the signing of a merger agreement. We are looking to combine our two organisations in order to maintain, enhance and expand services to our current and future service users.
IAG is a social enterprise that has, for more than 60 years provided choices and services for people living with a disability or other personal need. SASI have been assisting the day-to-day life of those with autism for more than 50 years. The Boards and management of the two organisations have entered into an agreement to discuss and review ways in which the two organisations might work together.
“As part of our strategic planning for the future, SASI has for some years been looking at ways in which we can provide more services to the Autistic Community and their families” says SASI CEO Kath Ferry. “We have been looking at organisations with similar focus and values with whom we can expand our expert Autism services and provide growth pathways for our specialist staff. IAG has the size, national reach and focus on service delivery excellence that fits well with our plans.”
“IAG started our journey as an organisation focused on people with physical disabilities. But as we have grown, so too have the number of people we work with and the complexity of their needs” says IAG CEO Peter Turner. “Today 12% of the people we provide services for are Autistic and almost 50% are neuro diverse. SASI’s specialist Autism knowledge will be invaluable for both current and future customers.”
Both organisations are grounded in person-centred values and a shared commitment to delivering quality and engaging support services. “With our combined experience, we will be able to provide staff with more career and development options and deliver and increase more of our service for users to flourish and reach their goals in life” say the two CEOs.
The current plan is for the two organisations to merge as of 1 July 2023. As previously planned and announced, CEO Kath Ferry will retire from SASI on 30 June 2023.
Both organisations will continue to operate under two brands as currently with no immediate changes to services anticipated. A joint steering group will determine how the two organisations will work together in the future and staff, families and clients will be consulted and kept informed as decisions are made.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me directly by emailing: [email protected]
Warm regards,
Melissa Violani
