Poatina Community Transition

Dear valued Fusion stakeholders,

We have an important updates regarding Fusion Australia Ltd’s (FAL) involvement in Poatina and the steps ahead.

Through a collaborative process of consultation, the Poatina community has recommended establishing a locally governed, independent entity to take on the management of its social enterprises and properties. Fusion Australia fully supports this recommendation, recognising the opportunity it creates for the Poatina community to shape its own future with autonomy and purpose. FAL intends to retain Poatina Arts and continue to run arts programs in Poatina.

As part of this transition, Fusion will provide resources to support the creation of the new entity. This includes funding for legal, business planning, and other essential needs. These resources will be managed locally, ensuring the process aligns with the vision and values of the Poatina community.

This decision has been made with careful consideration of the Poatina communities recommendation by Fusion Australia Board and leadership, guided by principles of mission alignment, justice, sustainability, and respect for local autonomy. We believe this path will best position the Poatina community to build a sustainable and thriving future.

We thank the Poatina community for their engagement, feedback, and patience through twelve different opportunities for community input including two community days, a community survey, 85 face to face meetings and a vote on the community recommendations.

The transition is targeted for completion by 1 July 2025. Over the coming months, Fusion will continue working alongside the community to ensure a smooth handover of assets and responsibilities. Our commitment is to provide the support needed to set this new entity up for success.

If you have any queries regarding the transition in Poatina, please reach out to this email address: PoatinaTransition@fusion.org.au

Thank you for your partnership and understanding as we take this significant step forward.

Sincerely,

Paul Ryan
Chair, Fusion Australia Ltd

Patrick Witcombe
CEO, Fusion Australia Ltd