Merger between job centres gforce and MEGT to take effect July 1

The boards of two prominent Geelong job centres have agreed to combine forces.

MEGT Chair, Peter Moore (left) and gforce Chair, Bill Mithen (right) believe a partnership could provide strategic benefits for both organisation.

A merger between two prominent Geelong employment centres that has been more than six months in the making has finally been given the green light.

From July 1, MEGT Australia and gforce employment + recruitment will be combined into one business after an agreement was reached by board members of both companies on Wednesday afternoon.

The move, which was first discussed in October 2024, was born out of a desire to consolidate support for clients, employers, and staff of the respective parties.

There will be no job losses from the merger across MEGT’s approximately 60 nationwide offices or gforce’s nine service offices and five outreach locations.

MEGT employs more than 650 people across Australia while gforce has 60 permanent staff – all based in Victoria.

A spokeswoman from gforce said staff were eager for the change and had “much to contribute” moving forward.

“We are excited about the opportunities this brings,” she said.

“Like all businesses, we will be seeking efficiencies over time and that may come from operating as a larger group.”

The companies also do not anticipate any office relocations as a result of the change.

gforce headquarters in Geelong. Picture: Supplied

MEGT chair Peter Moore said the “wonderful opportunity” was too good to resist.

“MEGT is committed to supporting regional and rural communities and recognises gforce’s strong capabilities and significant position,” he said.

“Joining with gforce will enhance our ability to help even more people and more communities.”

Gforce chair Bill Mithen said the move would create a “bright future” for those looking for employment.

“This builds on the incredible work of our people over decades and starts the next chapter,” he said.

“Together, we look forward to serving our existing communities and supporting people across the nation.”

Both organisations were established more than 40 years ago and have shared goals of serving the employment needs of their communities.

Gforce is based in Geelong but also offers its services to people in Ballarat, southwest Victoria and Melbourne’s western suburbs.

Originally published as Merger between job centres gforce and MEGT to take effect July 1