[citation needed] After highschool, Merchant attended the University of Lethbridge where he studied for a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

[2] He spent the majority of his time working in oil and gas as a labourer and then became an executive with M&N Construction in between his studies.

[3] In 2007 the Australian Winter Olympic Committee asked him to migrate to Australia on a distinguished talent visa.

[1] In 2010 he moved to Australia to coach and play with the Australian National Team and pursue a law degree at Bond University, which he completed in 2012.

Merchant also colour commentates on television, radio and is a contributor to print media in areas of sport, law, and government.