Mergers: A Primer for the Not-for-Profit Sector
The public worries about not-for-profit inefficiencies, and especially about teeth-to-tail ratios –…
Mergers
Mergers can strengthen not-for-profits by pooling resources, expanding reach and increasing impact, but they’re complex.
This page is your essential hub for community organisations and boards considering or navigating a merger. Access free guides, help sheets and tools to help you understand the risks, benefits and legal steps involved. Get practical support and governance insights to make informed decisions and ensure your merged organisation stays true to its mission.
Explore our not-for-profit merger resources today and build a stronger, more sustainable future for your community.
Top tools and resources
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The advantages and disadvantages of mergers
The real reason for thinking about mergers is that a well-done merger may promote your mission -…
Members Only
Paul Ronalds: Mission over reputation: The case for a merger in times of crisis
Mission over reputation: The case for a merger in times of crisis Paul Ronalds, chief executive…
Articles
Case studies confirm culture is the key to a successful merger
Posted on 17 Jul 2025
It’s no secret that making a not-for-profit merger work requires stamina and teamwork.
Why not-for-profit mergers fly or fail over ‘alignment’
Posted on 17 Jul 2025
Not-for-profit mergers are frequently discussed, yet relatively rare. Finding a merger partner and…
Mission over reputation: The case for mergers and new business models
Posted on 17 Jul 2025
Even before the covid-19 pandemic, it was clear the charity sector’s business model was broken.
Governance Guru: How can my board effectively manage a merger?
Posted on 17 Jul 2025
ICDA training lead Nina Laitala examines the governance issues facing Australian not-for-profits.
When it comes to mergers, don’t be blinded by the light of your great history
Posted on 17 Jul 2025
In the corporate world, mergers are often heralded as strategic wins or necessary consolidations.…
Is your not-for-profit merger solving a problem or creating a bigger one?
Posted on 17 Jul 2025
Leaders in the not-for-profit world agree that organisations must think beyond financial…
What’s driving NFP mergers?
Posted on 17 Jul 2025
Australian charities and not-for-profits (NFPs) are facing six forces that are driving strategic…
A joint effort: How two arthritis charities merged to increase their impact
Posted on 17 Jul 2025
For many years Arthritis NSW and Arthritis Queensland faced the same growing challenge: how to…
Australia’s charity sector is growing – but many smaller charities are doing it tough
Posted on 25 Jun 2025
Revenue for Australia’s charity and not-for-profit sector has reached record highs, and total…
The four questions NFPs should ask when considering a merger
Posted on 14 Jun 2025
Mergers in the in the not-for-profit sector are on the rise and while the benefits can be…
NFPs consider mergers to offset rising financial pressure: report
Posted on 13 Jun 2025
Not-for-profits (NFPs) are under so much financial pressure, many are considering merging with…
Change comes in the colours of the rainbow
Posted on 11 Dec 2024
The merger of two of Australia’s top LGBTQIA+ organisations to create Rainbow Giving Australia is…