Mergers, amalgamations and acquisitions in the Australian not-for-profit human services sector

The overarching aim of this research project is to identify and assess the dynamics among the key motivations, risks, barriers and opportunities associated with merges, amalgamations and acquisitions (M&As) in the Australian Not-for-Profit (NFP) human services sector.

Findings support M&A uptake as an effective strategy for organisational growth, gaining, scale efficiencies and enhancing service choice and quality within the NFP service sector. The M&A process itself however is often complex, time-consuming and can be costly. Some of the critical M&A success factors include  board and CEO leadership, clarity of the social mission and goals, a well-designed merger plan, proactive communication and stakeholder engagement. We utilise the 4-P framework, representing ‘purpose, people, process and policy’ to elucidate the connectivities among the four different factors, and recommend a range of good practice guidelines for M&A success.

Project dates: 2017 - 2018 

Key contributors:

  • Nava Subramaniam
  • Craig Furneaux
  • David Gilchrist
  • Alan Lowe
  • Adela McMurray
  • Yesh Nama
  • Raelene West
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This project addresses the following Sustainable Development Goals and Targets:

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16.6 Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels

16.7 Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels

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17.17 Encourage and promote effective public, private and civil society partnerships, building on the experience and resourcing strategies of partnerships

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Get in touch

For more information or to discuss partnership and collaboration opportunities, email us at SDGs@rmit.edu.au.

For more information about RMIT’s sustainability commitments and activities visit www.rmit.edu.au/sustainability

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.