In a significant development for Australia’s care sector, three major faith-based care providers—Baptcare, Baptist Care SA, and BaptistCare—announced their plans to merge. This strategic unification will create the nation’s third-largest integrated care and services provider, delivering a range of support options for vulnerable communities across Australia.
Pending regulatory and other necessary approvals, the merger is expected to be completed in March 2025, with an integration period to follow. The combined organisation will bring together over 12,000 staff members, providing retirement living, aged care, community housing, and family and community services to more than 38,000 clients across New South Wales, the ACT, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, and Western Australia.
Tim Farren, current Chair of the Baptcare Board, has been announced as Chair of the new entity, while Robert Dunn, Chair of the BaptistCare Board, will serve as Vice Chair. Farren emphasised that this merger presents an opportunity to enhance customer services and expand advocacy efforts.
“As Baptist faith-based organisations, we have a shared mission to strengthen communities by valuing people and supporting them to have hope, dignity and fullness of life. Coming together will help us continue delivering that mission while staying true to our legacy,” Farren said.
“Strategically, this merger will create a stronger organisation by combining our resources, expertise, and market reach.”
Charles Moore, CEO-elect of the new merged organisation
Sue Raw, CEO of Baptist Care SA, will lead South Australia through the transition. Meanwhile, Geraldine Lannon, CEO of Baptcare, will take a break until March 2025 before departing, with Leanne Beveridge stepping in as Acting CEO of Baptcare during the interim.
A name for the new organisation will be chosen through a consultation process. Still, it is confirmed that the full scope of services will remain, including retirement living, residential aged care, home care, disability support, foster care, chaplaincy, mental health services, and more.
