The sale of Bedford has been finalised thanks to the support of the Malinauskas and Albanese Governments, securing the future of the much-loved South Australian charity and 1,250 supported workers and clients with disabilities.
The sale sees reputable not-for-profit disability service provider The Disability Trust take over the running of Bedford, which will keep its name.
This moment marks the first step into Bedford’s future — a fresh start, with the same heart.
As part of the sale 300 non-supported employees will also retain their jobs.
Together, the State and Federal Government have provided almost $40 million to support the sale through an administration process, staving off liquidation and imminent collapse of Bedford, which has been in operation for 80 years.
The administrator McGrath Nicol is undertaking a separate sale process which would see to the continued operation of Bedford’s Mount Gambier site, with the process expected to be finalised within months.
Quotes
Attributable to Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas:
“Today is a significant day for more than a thousand South Australians with disability, and their families.
“They can continue to have the dignity of work, knowing their role at Bedford is secure. Their families can know their loved one is safe, occupied and gainfully employed.
“Bedford is about much more than a job. It’s about community. It’s about connection.
“When we saw that Bedford was at real risk of collapsing thanks to the failures of its management, we took the tough decisions to step in, develop a plan, and secure a long term future, in partnership with the Commonwealth.
“Whether it be Bedford or Whyalla, we are a Government that is not afraid of making the tough calls needed to protect South Australians.”
Attributable to the Minister for Health, Ageing, Disability and the NDIS, Mark Butler:
“Bedford has supported South Australians living with a disability and their families for more than 80 years and because of the actions of the Albanese and Malinauskas governments it will continue to do so.
“Today is a testament to all the South Australians who fought for the survival of Bedford.”
Attributable to the Minister for Human Services, Nat Cook:
“This change of ownership represents a real milestone, bringing certainty and security to a community that had been facing a period of doubt.
“Our aim all along was to make sure the people with intellectual disability felt confident that their support would not only continue but strengthen into the future.
“Bedford has always been more than a workplace for the people it serves, and we are confident this sense of community and purpose will be supported under the new leadership.”
Attributable to Mathew McIntyre, Deputy Group CEO of The Disability Trust:
“Today is about acknowledging what the Bedford community has navigated and recognising the strength, professionalism and care shown throughout a challenging period.
“With the administration process now complete, our focus is on stability, continuity and supporting Bedford to move forward with confidence and respect.”
