2 NFP community health organisations merge as Holstep Health

Banyule Community Health and Merri Health have united to provide a healthier future for their communities.

The two community health organisations in Victoria have 100 years of experience in supporting the health and well-being of local communities – together now as Holstep Health.

Holstep Health reflects a deep commitment to holistic, wrap-around care that supports every aspect of a person’s well-being—physical, mental, social, financial and legal.

Now one of the largest NFP health organisations in VIC, Holstep Health provides over 120 health and social care services in the north, north-west and north-east of metropolitan Melbourne, as well as statewide services with Carer Gateway and Gambler’s Help. Its team of over 700 staff delivers patient-centred care across 11 sites and through telehealth.

The new name was developed through extensive consultation, with inputs from over 300 clients, community members, partners and employees. It signifies the following:

“Hol” is from the word holistic, representing an approach to treating the whole person with wrap-around care.

“Step” symbolises the journey taken together with clients, walking alongside them through every stage of their health journey.

“Holstep Health is more than just a name – it’s our promise to provide compassionate, comprehensive care that evolves with our clients, ensuring we’re with them every step of the way,” CEO Tassia Michaleas said.

The merger occurred in October 2024, with Banyule Community Health and Merri Health committing to develop a new name and brand that honours both organisations’ history and represents their shared vision for the future.

“We’ve joined forces to create a healthier future for our communities. Together, we are stronger. We will continue to provide our current services, delivered by the same trusted people, from our existing locations, with a focus on greater capacity to grow into the future,” Michaleas emphasised.

Geraldine Grones

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Geraldine is currently the Content Producer for Third Sector, an Akolade channel. Throughout her career, she has written for various industries and international audiences. Her love for writing extends beyond the corporate world, as she also works as a volunteer writer at her local church. Aside from writing, she is also fond of joining fun runs and watching musicals.