Metro Assist and Community Action for Better Living Announce Merger

3^rd October 2025

Metro Assist and Community Action for Better Living (CABL) are pleased to announce their merger, effective October 2025. This decision, formally endorsed by both Boards, marks the start of a new chapter in delivering stronger, more connected services to communities across Sydney’s Inner West, Inner South West, and beyond.

For decades, both organisations shared a history of working closely with the local people and communities as trusted service providers and through ongoing collaboration. Together, Metro Assist and CABL will combine their expertise and shared values to create a more resilient organisation, positioned to deliver holistic, high-quality, and person-centred services that foster inclusion, resilience, and wellbeing. We will continue to work alongside and advocate for diverse local communities to achieve greater collective impact.

Metro Assist was founded in 1986 as Canterbury Migrant Resource Centre to deliver settlement services and has since grown to deliver a range of multicultural services, family support, tenancy advice, financial inclusion services, and employment programs. CABL was established in 1968 as Burwood Welfare Services and is today known for its domestic and family violence support, court advocacy, Meals on Wheels, family support, and gambling awareness programs.

The merged organisation will continue to prioritise individuals and families from diverse backgrounds, women affected by domestic and family violence, newly arrived migrants and refugees, elderly residents, tenants, job seekers, and those experiencing financial hardship. All current services will continue without interruption. CABL will remain at its Homebush and Concord West locations, while Metro Assist will continue at its Campsie, Bankstown, and Condell Park offices.

Nina Shahi, CEO of Metro Assist, will lead the merged organisation and provide steady leadership to the merged organisation through this new chapter.

The dedicated frontline staff and volunteers from both organisations, who are well known and trusted, will continue in their roles—ensuring the strong relationships and vital services our communities rely on remain unchanged.

Craig Klement, Chair of CABL: “Our Board is excited to take this important step forward. By bringing our organisations together, we can build on our shared values and history to strengthen and enhance our services creating greater opportunities for communities we serve.”

Richard Wonders, Chair of Metro Assist: “We are deeply grateful to our communities and partners who have supported us over so many years. This merger marks a step forward in broadening our impact and improving outcomes for individuals and families in our communities.”

The Boards extend their thanks to communities, funders, and supporters who have stood beside Metro Assist and CABL for many years.

For further information or media enquiries, please contact Nina Shahi on 0410427694.