MS Society SA & NT enters voluntary administration amid mounting losses

The Multiple Sclerosis Society of South Australia & Northern Territory Inc. (MS SA&NT), a long-standing not-for-profit provider of health, support and disability services, has entered voluntary administration after three consecutive years of losses and debts of approximately $2.5 million. The move follows the collapse of key income-generating contracts that left the organisation unable to replace revenue.

The organisation supports between 2,000 and 3,000 people living with multiple sclerosis across South Australia and the Northern Territory, while also operating disability employment provider Multiple Solutions. It employs around 70 staff, many of whom now face an uncertain future alongside the clients they serve.

Andrew Heard and Anthony Phillips from Heard Phillips Lieberenz were appointed voluntary administrators on 22 September following a resolution of the board. Mr. Heard noted that the directors recognised the lack of profitability, the erosion of reserves, and the absence of secure future income streams as making administration unavoidable. He also emphasised that his immediate focus is on preserving service continuity for clients and securing expressions of interest from other providers capable of taking over nursing, allied health, and other core MS SA&NT services.

MS Australia, the national body, was quick to clarify that the administration of MS SA&NT does not affect other state-based member organisations. It pledged to work with governments and sector partners to ensure continuity of services in South Australia and the Northern Territory. At the same time, it underscored the episode as evidence of the urgent need for sustainable funding and policy settings to support disability and health providers.