Elaine Carbines to join genU board after annual meeting

A week after posting an almost $30m loss for 2023/24, genU says its latest appointment will help turn around its fortunes.

Elaine Carbines. Picture: Peter Ristevski.

Embattled Geelong-based disability service provider genU has received a welcome boost, with the appointment of a well-connected and experienced executive joining its board.

Elaine Carbines, a former state Labor MP and G21 chief executive, has replaced outgoing director Leanne Meehan, who spent two years on the board.

The appointment will come into effect following genU’s annual meeting on November 12.

Board chair Ingrid Williams spruiked the addition of Ms Carbines as a huge win for an organisation that only last week posted an almost $30m loss.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have Elaine bring her considerable expertise, insight and breadth of experience onto our board,” she said.

“Along with our members, the board, and we’re thrilled it now includes Elaine, is committed to ensuring genU continues to deliver on the missions of its founding organisations, Karingal and St Laurence.”

genU’s headquarters on Reynolds Rd in Belmont. Picture: Alison Wynd.

While conceding the challenges facing genU currently, Ms Carbines said she was confident the organisation had the governance, executive and strategy in place for future success.

Her appointment is for a 12-month period.

Revenue of $345m was generated by genU in 2023/24, a lower than expected result that stemmed from falls in the areas of disability employment services and allied health, which, in turn, was attributed to ongoing pricing constraints, wage pressures and staff shortages.

Ms Williams, who joined the board two years ago and became chair 12 months ago, said genU had implemented significant change in recent years.

“As we work to deliver on our Strategy 2030 priorities, Elaine’s appointment will be key to helping our organisation continue to grow and support our clients across the country,” she said.

“We are in a strong position to capitalise on future opportunities and have forecasted a return to profitability in 2025.”

While representing Labor in Victoria’s Legislative Council from 1999 to 2006, Ms Carbines held the positions of parliamentary secretary for education and environment.

In 2020, she was made a Member of the Order of Australia for her significant contribution to the environment and conservation.

Originally published as Elaine Carbines to join genU board after annual meeting