It will allow both services to expand and allow them to better support individual needs under the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

The merger will also allow for greater financial sustainability and enable investment into critical “back of house” services essential to NDIS support but with no change to client support or jobs.

Karden chair Daina MacLeod said the merger will take place by July 1, 2017.

“Karden and Melba share a very similar mission, philosophy and values that focus on respect, treating people with dignity and human rights. This is one of the main reasons we have chosen to merge,” Ms MacLeod said.

“We’re excited to be coming together to build a stronger organisation and to provide an expanded range of services and opportunities for individuals with disability.”

Karden will continue to operate under its existing trading name but will legally become part of Melba Support Services Incorporated.

As part of the merger, the two organisational boards will be combined and a dedicated Ballarat advisory committee is planned.

Karden’s chief executive officer Rachael Jones will continue to work as the Ballarat regional senior manager while Glenn Foard will be CEO of the merged entity.

“This is not the first time that Karden and Melba have worked together,” Ms Jones said.

“We were jointly awarded a government tender in 2015 to provide support to the clients of the Sandhurst Centre.

“Melba is an excellent fit for Karden and the merger will enable us to expand the services we provide.

“Melba has been a leader in the disability services sector for the last 44 years. We are thrilled to be joining an organisation with such extensive experience and alignment of values and purpose.”

Karden provides disability support across the Ballarat region.

Melba provides similar services across eastern and southern Melbourne and the Yarra Ranges.