Media Release
22 February 2024
Victorian-based complex mental health and disability support provider ermha365 will join together with The Disability Trust (TDT) to provide more services to people across Australia.
A formal “intent to merge” agreement has been signed by TDT and ermha365, which will result in the organisations starting to integrate in April 2024.
A key goal of ermha365’s 10-year Strategic Intent and Vision is to become a national service provider and the organisation began a search last year to find a like-minded not-for-profit organisation to partner with.
TDT has been operating for nearly 50 years and already has a large operational footprint in NSW, the ACT, Queensland and Victoria.
ermha365 CEO Karenza Louis-Smith said their expertise in complexity, psychosocial and mental health and TDT’s reputation and scope in NDIS service delivery meant that together, the organisations could close significant gaps in NDIS and community services nationally.
“Our organisations have a lot in common. We share the vision that everyone deserves to have the support and opportunities to enjoy a sense of belonging, a safe place in their communities and to reach their full potential,” Ms Louis-Smith said.
“Ever since ermha365 was founded in 1982 by carers of loved ones with mental ill-health, we have worked hard to provide purpose, hope, support and connection.”
“This is a fantastic opportunity to develop new, broader service models, invest more in our people, and use our shared experience to reach more communities throughout Australia to do what we do best – support people to be able to live a fulfilling life.”
The Disability Trust CEO Carol Berry welcomed the planned merger by saying she was proud to unite with another high-quality organisation.
“This agreement with ermha365 is an exciting time for both organisations as we look to expand the impact we can have across the communities that we serve as a united entity,” Ms Berry said.
“TDT is inspired by the opportunity to join forces with an organisation that brings so much passion and experience.”
“I am confident there will be a range of benefits for clients and staff of TDT and ermha365 by our organisations joining forces and bringing together our collective skill and capability.”
“This partnership further expands our footprint in Australia, strengthening the services we offer in Victoria, adding a presence in the Northern Territory and complementing the existing programs throughout NSW, the ACT and Queensland.”
ermha365 and TDT’s existing services will continue to operate as usual.
There are no immediate plans to change the name, logo or branding for either organisation.
Background
Founded in 1982, ermha365 provides a range of mental health and disability services in Victoria and Darwin designed to help people experiencing mental health challenges to thrive in their communities.
The Disability Trust (TDT) was established in 1974 and provides a wide range of disability services to adults and children in NSW, the ACT, Victoria and Queensland.
Media enquiries:
ermha365 Advocacy and External Communications Advisor Emily Webb
(M) 0447 762 350 (E) e.webb@ermha.org
The Disability Trust Public Relations and Communications Manager Paul Suttor
(M) 0421 491 229 (E) paul.suttor@disabilitytrust.org.au