ECH acquire new technology company

Billy is a technology company that provides a sense of security to older Australians who want to live independently at home while making their family feel reassured that their older loved ones are safe.

Billy has a series of smart sensors that are installed into the homes of older people that tracks their daily routines and can send alerts to family members and health care professionals through its Billy app.

Chief Executive of ECH, Dr David Panter, says, “Ongoing investment and implementation of tailored technologies is vital for the aged care industry moving forward. We are determined to make real change in the industry through the investment of technology. 

“Because when used correctly, technology can create positive change, enabling and supporting people to remain living independently in their own homes. We have seen recently during COVID-19 restrictions how technology like Billy can be used to support older people and it’s essential we continue to build on this momentum.

“Technology will undoubtedly play a critical role in supporting Australians as they age – particularly those people who wish to remain living independently at home.

“While it will never replace the personalised approach, the best outcomes for clients will be achieved through tailored and individual care plans combined with cutting-edge technology.”

Billy sensors can monitor daily tasks and let family and medical professionals know if there is a change in behaviour of an older person, which allows for preventative measures to be put in place that can help reduce any decline in an individual’s wellbeing.

ECH intends to accelerate the expansion of Billy within its own ECH customer base and wants to work with the technology company to develop more technology to assist older people at home.

Co-founder of Billy, Tim McDougall, says, “Today’s acquisition is reflective of the mission of the Billy team. We have got to know ECH as an investor and customer over the last two years and continue to be struck by the inspirational way that they think about the future of care.

“With ECH acquiring Billy, we recognised an opportunity to drive the growth and longevity of Billy, while being able to drive the expansive digital strategy that ECH is executing. While Billy will remain largely independent, our teams will become intrinsically linked. I will take an executive role at ECH and lead Billy while my co-founder, Melissa McDougall will become ECH’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO).

“There are a number of people around the country already using Billy services so this acquisition will provide an opportunity for ECH to grow their presence interstate.

“We thank ECH for not only identifying the value of Billy as a product offering, but also the critical role of the dedicated team behind it. We look forward to working together to ensure a brighter future for the industry, and ageing Australians in general.”

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