Alt text: Lifely and Amicus Community Services logos with the words “Exciting announcement – Lifely and Amicus work together to strengthen disability support.”

Lifely and Amicus explore a shared future

Two of regional Victoria’s most trusted disability service providers, Lifely and Amicus Community Services, are in discussions about joining forces through a potential merger.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is changing, and disability services need to change as well. By joining forces, both organisations can better support regional and rural communities, give the best help to people with disabilities and their families, and keep services strong for the future.

Lifely Chief Executive Officer Janette Martin, a nationally respected disability sector leader with more than 30 years of experience, said now was the right time to look ahead. “The NDIS is evolving quickly, and we want to make sure our participants and their families continue to get the very best support,” Ms. Martin said.

“By bringing our ideas, skills, and resources together, we could offer smarter, more flexible services that respond to local needs and help both organisations grow sustainably.”

Over the coming months, the organisations will complete a due diligence process to review how each operates, identify strengths, and explore opportunities for improvement. They will also conduct an operational review, listening to participants, families, and staff before making any decisions.

Amicus Managing Director Stan Liacos, who has held senior leadership roles with the City of Greater Bendigo, Federation Square, Geelong Waterfront, and Queen Victoria Market, said the organisations’ shared history and values make the discussions a natural fit.

“Amicus and Lifely both began in Bendigo in the 1980s as grassroots, community-led organisations. We have grown and adapted over the years, but our focus on people has never changed,” Mr. Liacos said.

“This is about building on that legacy, keeping what works, strengthening what we offer, and making sure our services remain strong for the future.”

Lifely and Amicus will continue operating independently during this process. Services for participants and carers will continue without interruption, and there are no current changes to staffing or roles.