The future of one of South Australia’s most important disability employers has been secured, with Bedford officially entering a new chapter following the completion of its sale — protecting more than 1,250 supported workers and clients with disabilities.
After months of uncertainty, the much-loved South Australian charity will continue operating under its existing name, with respected not-for-profit provider The Disability Trust taking over its management. The transition marks a reset rather than a reinvention — a fresh start that preserves Bedford’s identity, purpose and community.
The outcome has been made possible through joint intervention by the State and Federal Governments, who together committed almost $40 million to support the sale process. The funding prevented liquidation and safeguarded a service that has supported South Australians for more than 80 years.
Crucially, the deal secures the roles of 1,250 supported workers and clients with disabilities, alongside 300 non-supported employees who will also retain their jobs — delivering stability to families and communities across the state.
Premier Peter Malinauskas said the day marked a turning point for people who rely on Bedford not only for employment, but for connection and dignity.
“Today is a significant day for more than a thousand South Australians with disability, and their families,” he said. “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.”
The Premier acknowledged the seriousness of the organisation’s previous financial position, saying decisive action was required. “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.”
Federal Minister for Health, Ageing, Disability and the NDIS Mark Butler said the sale ensured Bedford could continue its long-standing role in supporting people with disability and their families.
“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,” he said. “Today is a testament to all the South Australians who fought for the survival of Bedford.”
South Australian Minister for Human Services Nat Cook described the transition as a moment of certainty following a period of doubt. “This change of ownership represents a real milestone, bringing certainty and security to a community that had been facing a period of doubt,” she said. “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.”
From the new operator’s perspective, Deputy Group CEO of The Disability Trust Mathew McIntyre said the focus now turns firmly to stability. “Today is about acknowledging what the Bedford community has navigated and recognising the strength, professionalism and care shown throughout a challenging period,” he said. “With the administration process now complete, our focus is on stability, continuity and supporting Bedford to move forward with confidence and respect.”
A separate administration process continues for Bedford’s Mount Gambier site, with administrator McGrath Nicol undertaking a parallel sale process expected to be finalised in the coming months.
