Consultant says move will enable it to fund expansion into other international markets

Currie & Brown is selling its Australian consultancy arm to Amec, in a deal worth AU$36.4m (£20.2m).

The group said the move enabled it to free up funds for expansion in other international markets such as India and the United States.

It added that it would continue to remain active in the international energy sector in the UK, Europe, Americas, Middle East and Asia.

Commenting, Euan McEwan, the group chief executive, said: “This deal is an important one for the group, principally because it provides funds for our continued expansion in key markets.”

“Historically, our activities in Australia have been through an Australian registered company with local directors, dating back some years. After a thorough review we and our fellow directors decided that disposal would be the best option for all concerned,” he added.

Negotiations with Amec began in late 2009 and reached a quick conclusion, the group said.