Image: OAK Possability directors, Brian Scullin, Kathleen Brient and David Mazengarb, at the Optia AGM.
The OAK Tasmania and Optia Ltd AGMs held on 31 October and 2 November respectively were the last as individual organisations, following the decision in July 2016 to merge.
Reflecting on the past year, OAK Possability Executive Chairman, John Paton, noted that OAK Tasmania had gone to considerable lengths to reset the services it provides for a future in which people with disabilities and their families choose their service provider. The merger was another strategic step in transitioning to the NDIS.
“The combined OAK Possability will be well placed to benefit from the transition and provide improved and varied services to support people with disabilities,” he said
OAK Possability CEO, Drew Beswick, said 2015-16 was characterised by the themes of change and collaboration.
“Possability continued to work closely with clients, families and other stakeholders to ensure that our services meet people’s needs and aspirations.
“This included establishing a new Family Advisory Group, which along with the Consumer Forums, provide a valuable opportunity to gain feedback about what is important to clients and families. “
It was noted at the AGMs that both organisations ended the 2016 financial year in a sound financial shape. The merger would further strengthen financial resilience, which is a key challenge for all service providers transitioning to the NDIS.
For more information download the 2016 OAK Tasmania Annual Report and the 2016 Optia Ltd Annual Report.