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 come together to strengthen disability services

Lifely and Amicus Community Services have announced a pivotal step to unite and enhance support for people with disability, their families, and carers.

The two Loddon-Mallee-based not-for-profit organisations share deep community values and have spent over a year collaborating to deliver an integrated organisation that will provide superior services across regional Victoria.

Both boards recently confirmed their alliance, agreeing that Lifely will assume Amicus services via a strategic transfer of people and programs.

The needs of participants, carers, families and staff have guided every decision. Supports will continue as normal, with no interruption, and services will be provided by Lifely.

As Amicus transfers its programs and staff to Lifely, it will wind down operations and concentrate its resources and support with Lifely. This process will occur in phases, with Amicus providing updates to all stakeholders regarding timelines and actions.

Left to right Lifely CEO Janette Martin and Amicus Community Services Managing Director Stan Liacos

Managing Director and CEO of Amicus, Stan Liacos, said the change is about building stronger, more sustainable services for the future.

“The NDIS is evolving, with reforms, foundational supports and initiatives like Thriving Kids shaping what comes next,” Mr Liacos said.

“By working with a values-aligned organisation like Lifely, we can ensure people continue to access the support they rely on, while strengthening Lifely’s ability to deliver quality services for the long term.”

The transition will be carefully managed to keep supports running smoothly, with no immediate changes to services. Participants will keep full choice and control, including the option to move to

Lifely or choose another provider. Participants will be supported every step of the way with clear information and practical help.

Lifely CEO Janette Martin said the change creates a strong opportunity to deliver even better outcomes for regional communities.

“This is about building something better for people with disability, their families and the communities they live in,” Ms Martin said.

“Together, we can grow a stronger, more connected organisation that delivers better outcomes, creates more opportunities, and contributes to local jobs and regional economies.”

The organisations employ around 500 people across regional Victoria, creating opportunities to strengthen services, support staff and build local capability. As services come together, changes will happen over time, but Lifely remains committed to regional jobs, staff wellbeing and high-quality support. No staffing decisions have been made.

Both organisations will provide regular updates during the transition, with a target date of March 2027 for the effective combination of resources.