International consulting, engineering and construction services contractor MWH Global plans to acquire Perth-based environmental consultancy Outback Ecology.
MWH said the acquisition would give it the opportunity to combine its current product offerings for the resources and energy industries with Outback’s specialised services.
Commercial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Outback director Harley Lacey said his firm has been considering an approach from MWH for more than nine months, with the board going through a considerable evaluation process, checking culture, values and common alignment to be very sure of this next step.Mr Lacey said MWH would help Outback service clients across Australia and globally, in a sustainable and effective way.MWH is based in Colorado and has offices in 35 countries. It has been in Australia since the 1970s and in WA since 2006.Within MWH, Outback will join a specialised Energy and Industry group that provides support to mining and energy clients. MWH energy and industry president Joseph Adams said “both MWH and Outback Ecology have similar values and focus on water, sustainability, ecology and the environment to effectively serve our clients and communities".
“MWH is pleased to welcome Outback Ecology’s 75 employees, including scientists and specialists who will continue to work with clients across the lifecycle of mining and energy projects from evaluation and permitting through reclamation and beyond.”
Outback operates out of three locations in Perth, Brisbane and Kalgoorlie.
Mr Lacy said integration of the two companies would begin immediately after the transaction is completed.