For over 50 years, Banyule Community Health and Merri Health have been caring for the community, continually evolving and growing in response to the changing needs of the people and communities we serve.
In October 2024, Banyule Community Health and Merri Health officially merged, announcing a new name, Holstep Health in 2025. While our name has changed, our purpose remains the same: to support our communities to live their healthiest and most connected lives. We do this with empathy, cultural respect, and accountability. We continue to advocate for equity and a stronger and more sustainable health sector.
Celebrating 50 years of Community Care
1975-1980: Small beginnings to benefit local people
Our services started out providing holistic care and support for residents of Brunswick, West Heidelberg and surrounding suburbs – fuelled by the community itself to serve people most in need. These services addressed important community concerns, including the need for affordable health, social and family services.
Serving our communities since 1975
Holstep Health has a powerful legacy – more than 50 years of trusted, local care in Northern and Eastern Metropolitan Melbourne. Thousands of individuals and families have found support, dignity, and opportunity through our services.
1981-1990: Building on our foundations and embedding in the community
New buildings opened, we continued to grow and introduce new services to address local needs.
1991-2000: Growing stronger each year
This was a time of expansion, with new names, building extensions and funding to add more services to meet the changing needs of our communities.
2001-2010: Entering the new millennium with energy
In this busy phase we developed new partnerships with hospitals and local health and social services organisations, to deliver programs that respond to what matters locally, including community care for chronic conditions, and made a move with the opening of the new West Heidelberg Centre.
2011-2015: Anniversaries, achievements and expanded services to Regional Victoria
Our hard work continued to pay off over this period and our efforts were recognised with multiple awards and a huge 40 year celebration party at West Heidelberg!
2016-2019: Rising above difficult events with renewed focus
Amid challenges including a devastating fire we found new ways to support our community – and were honoured to receive awards.
2020 – and beyond: Taking the lead in changing times
Through the COVID-19 pandemic and some difficult years, we stayed focused on providing quality, accessible care for our clients – while keeping the future in mind.
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Be your whole self at work
At Holstep Health, we want you to bring your whole self to work. Your culture, perspective and lived experience are valued here.