Poatina Community Transition
Fusion Australia confirms staged sale of Poatina assets
Fusion Australia has made the difficult decision to divest the majority of its property assets in Poatina Village in the state’s central highlands, as part of a community-led transition toward local governance and independence.
Fusion Australia is a Christian, for-purpose youth-services charity. Its vision is that young people in Australia have purpose and connection in a community that cares for them. Over time, Poatina has become a community with limited connection to that core youth focus.
The decision comes following a 12-month comprehensive independent consultation program with the local community, including surveys, meetings, advisory groups and anonymous voting.
The staged divestment strategy will see the sale of all residential and non-residential assets, except for the Arts Centre, which will continue to operate under Fusion Australia’s stewardship for the time being.
Fusion Australia purchased Poatina Village in 1995 from Hydro Tasmania, transforming the former workers’ town into an intentional community, focused on providing services to young people in need.
CEO Patrick Witcombe said he acknowledged the emotional and complex nature of the decision, and the organisation remained committed to transparent and compassionate communication with the community throughout the transition.
“Ultimately, we needed to make a decision to ensure Fusion Australia can maintain its long-term charitable purpose through responsible asset management, while minimising disruption to the village and enabling continuity, where possible, for community activities,” Mr Witcombe said.
“This option received the strongest overall endorsement following the 12-month consultation period, with a clear majority of the community indicating its support for selling the assets and forging a new future for Poatina.”
Mr Witcombe said the residential properties would be sold via local agents, in packages, or through private negotiation, and would be released in stages to avoid market saturation and support resident stability.
“Non-residential properties, including the Chalet and service station, have been marketed for sale as ongoing enterprises, and the Chalet is currently under offer,” he said.
“A window for packaged property proposals from residents, charities, and businesses will remain open through late 2025 to early 2026, and individual offers will also be considered to ensure no opportunities are missed.
“Unsold properties will be listed with business brokers from April 2026.”
Mr Witcombe said Fusion was currently reviewing the future of the arts centre in Poatina, recognising the arts had long been a vital part of the village’s identity and community life.
“As part of Fusion’s national strategy, the Poatina Arts is being assessed for alignment with the organisation’s evolving mission, particularly its focus on supporting young people aged 12–25,” he said.
“Following consultation with volunteers and supporters, the arts leadership team has expressed interest in exploring independence from Fusion. This input is being carefully considered, and a decision will be made later this year.”
For further information: Jacquie Ray | Timmins Ray Public Relations | 0429 683 779
