Vision Australia has today announced that a decision has been made to close Vision Australia Enterprises (VAE).
The announcement follows an internal review of the business, which has made substantial losses over a number of years.
The Chief Executive Officer of Vision Australia, Ron Hooton, said a closure would affect 73 staff in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.
58 of the 73 staff are blind or have low vision.
This is a decision he described as sad but unavoidable.
Mr Hooton said: “This is one of the hardest decisions we have had to make at Vision Australia."
“Over the next six weeks a consultation process with VAE staff will take place about this decision, and at the end of this period the Board will consider any issues raised during the consultation period which it should take into account”
“No VAE positions are being made redundant today. Our priority is to support staff and their families in relation to this announcement.”
“Any closure would be implemented over a three month transition period and we would work with each staff member to develop a plan to find other opportunities, which may include redeploying up to 12 staff into other roles. We will offer as much support, counselling and other services as needed during this difficult period,” he said.
“We have had to make this decision because Enterprises has made substantial losses over the last few years. We’ve investigated a number of options to make it work and this decision comes despite the best efforts of all involved,” he added.
Mr Hooton said Vision Australia has a responsibility to the blind and low vision community to provide early intervention, clinical, educational, recreation and advocacy services which would not change as a result of the latest announcement.
What is Vision Australia Enterprises?
Vision Australia Enterprises is a supported disability employment program based in Kensington and Coorparoo.
Staff a both locations provide warehousing, pick 'n pack, fulfillment and logistics services.
Offices at other Vision Australia locations are not being closed.
Media enquiries: Rebecca McLean, 0428 496 105
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