Uncertain Future for Bedford Leaves South Australians Deeply Concerned
Imagine a place where going to work is more than just a job — it’s a lifeline, a community, and a source of identity. That’s exactly what Bedford has been for hundreds of South Australians living with disability. But now, the future of this long-standing disability employment provider is hanging in the balance, and for many, the thought of it disappearing is unimaginable.
Ryan Clarke, who lives with Down syndrome, has spent the last 20 years happily working in packaging at Bedford. His father, Gerry, remembers Ryan’s first day vividly, probably more nervous than his son. But Ryan thrived — making friends, meeting his girlfriend, and showing up proudly for work four days a week. To his family, Bedford isn’t just a job site — it’s a second home. So when news broke that Bedford may enter voluntary administration, it hit hard. Gerry said the thought was too difficult to even comprehend.
And they’re not alone in their concern. Over in Port Lincoln, Bronwyn Warland shared a similar heartbreak. Her son Lakota, who is non-verbal, attends Bedford twice a week. He uses sign language to proudly tell his family he’s off to work — and his joy is contagious. Bedford gave Lakota a renewed purpose after school ended. For his mum, it provided something just as valuable: the ability to work herself. Without Bedford, she would need to become his full-time carer again.
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So why is this happening?
Bedford recently revealed it's facing serious financial trouble, largely due to a cashflow issue linked to its efforts to modernize and diversify. The organisation invested heavily in transitioning supported employees into open employment, creating social enterprises to align with recommendations from the Disability Royal Commission. But the returns haven’t come fast enough. Now, they’re at a tipping point.
Government response has been cautious. While the South Australian government is trying to buy time and prevent collapse, the federal government has made it clear they won’t simply hand over taxpayer money without a sustainable plan. Meanwhile, families are left in limbo.
For many, losing Bedford wouldn’t just mean unemployment — it would mean the collapse of friendships, social networks, and essential routines. It would be a devastating blow, particularly in regional areas where alternatives are few and far between.
So for now, hundreds of families across South Australia wait — hoping that a solution can be found to save an institution that, for many, has meant everything.
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