Abingdon-headquartered RPS Group has expanded its operations with the acquisition of an Australian project management consultancy in a deal worth more than £17m.
RPS, a natural resources consultancy, has snapped up Point Project Management Pty for a maximum consideration of AU$31m (£17.6m).
Founded in 2006, Point is headquartered in Canberra and has offices in seven other Australian cities. The company, which employs over 130 permanent staff, works primarily on projects to deliver new developments for its clients, from inception, through planning and design, to completed construction.
The two director/vendors of the business will remain with RPS, along with all other staff.
In the year to 30 June 2014, Point had revenues of AU$32.5m (£18.5m) and pre-tax profits of AU$6.2m (£3.6m), after adjustment for non-recurring items.
RPS chief executive Alan Hearne said: "Point has an excellent reputation and track record, particularly in the Australian defence sector. Its skills will complement the services RPS currently provides in Australia and enable us further to rebalance our business towards the non-resources parts of the economy.
"We anticipate Point will add to AAP profit in the second half of 2014 and make a significant contribution in 2015."