McGrathNicol

Congratulations to BaptistCare and Presbyterian Aged Care on a successful transaction. McGrathNicol’s Deals team was proud to support BaptistCare as financial due diligence advisor in its acquisition of three care facilities from PAC — comprising a residential aged care home and two retirement villages across Drummoyne and Ashfield. This transaction marks the transition of over 100 dedicated employees and a proud legacy of care to BaptistCare, further expanding its national footprint to 34 retirement villages and 50 aged care homes.

The Westpac Consumer Sentiment Index is at a six-month low, falling 6% in April to 90.1 and reversing the gains it has made since October 2024. Note, the period of the survey included the US Administration’s announcement of its escalation of tariffs, which had a materially negative impact on sentiment. Announcements since then have softened the position. Partner Jason Ireland joined ausbiz and shared his insights around the “skittish” consumer. “Whilst I don’t read a lot into the actual reason for the change in sentiment, it shows how reactive consumers are to economic conditions, good and bad. In this current environment, and as we approach a Federal Election, consumers will remain very cautious about spending, meaning retailers will find it difficult to convince them to buy.” Watch the full ausbiz interview with Juliette Saly below. 

McGrathNicol congratulates Scentia on its acquisition of the Institute of Executive Coaching and Leadership (IECL) from GrowthOps Limited (Administrators Appointed). Kathy Sozou Damien Pasfield

Under changes to the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018, regulated entities must carry out cyber crisis simulations each year. Speaking to the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Partner Darren Hopkins urges board-level committees to embed cyber resilience in their corporate strategy. “How do you make sure you’re ready and match fit if you haven’t had a chance to test your plans?” Read the full article below, with thanks to Megan B. https://lnkd.in/gAh8qgKm

Congratulations to our newest Registered Liquidator, Melissa Smith. With more than 20 years’ experience, Melissa is a highly skilled restructuring and turnaround specialist. Melissa helps clients improve operational and financial performance, most often during times of challenge or change, by advising on strategy and then helping implement it. Melissa has extensive experience in conducting engagements for both private and public sector clients. Read more on Melissa: https://lnkd.in/gWXPBpd2

Director Suzanne Westney features in Dynamic Business this week, offering actionable tips to businesses when managing cash flow during a slowdown. “Any cash shortfall can be mitigated by optimising working capital processes, including collecting outstanding invoices faster, tightening inventory management, and negotiating improved terms with customers and suppliers.” Read the full feature below, with thanks to Yajush Gupta and the Dynamic Business team. 

We are delighted to welcome Emma Fletcher back to our team following her recent return from Parental Leave. As a Director in our Brisbane office, Emma brings over 16 years experience as a restructuring and turnaround specialist. Working alongside our expert team in Brisbane, Emma continues to support a diverse range of clients, including lenders, private companies and government entities, offering strategic advice and delivering key outcomes. Read more about Emma: https://lnkd.in/geXtXSVq

Business lending continues to be strong. Executive Chair Jason Preston features in the The Australian Financial Review, suggesting that the lending sector has become bifurcated and there is no shortage of liquidity. “The look and feel of this credit cycle may be different because the nature of the capital out there is different.” Read the full economic and business analysis below, with thanks to Senior Chanticleer Columnist James Thomson.

Partner Emma Boucher and Director Suzanne Westney will present at the upcoming Women in Construction Summit in Melbourne (Thursday 1 May), sharing case studies as well as practical strategies to effectively manage and minimise operational and financial risk at project and portfolio level. Find out further details on the event below.

Last week, our Brisbane office hosted a Women@McGrathNicol morning tea. A big thank you to everyone who attended, and a special thanks to our keynote speaker, Cathie Reid AM, for her insightful presentation on 'Visibility Matters.' Cathie shared valuable strategies for building a strong professional presence, leveraging opportunities, and enhancing visibility in leadership. Some key themes from Cathie’s presentation included: ✨ Confidence is key – it’s the foundation of a strong, authentic personal brand. 💪 Confidence is like a muscle – start small, create a plan, and practise to build it over time. 🌟 Lean into your strengths – your superpower lies in what you’re already great at. 🎯 Give yourself grace – don’t dwell on weaknesses, focus on what moves you forward. 🎉 Celebrate milestones – but remember, your personal brand should evolve with you. Our Women@McGrathNicol events are designed to be engaging, inclusive, and inspiring, and we truly appreciate the important role our clients play in strengthening our community.