Australian mattress manufacturer A.H. Beard has entered voluntary administration, according to a statement from the company, drawing concern across Australia’s manufacturing sector as industry stakeholders point to broader manufacturing cost pressures and import competition affecting local production.
In a media release, Australian Made Campaign Limited said the development is a significant setback for Australian manufacturing, describing the situation as a reflection of mounting pressures on domestic manufacturing businesses.
“This news is incredibly sad and concerning for Australia’s manufacturing sector,” Australian Made Chief Executive Ben Lazzaro said.
“As a fifth-generation, Australian Made business with more than 125 years of history, A.H. Beard represents the very best of local craftsmanship, innovation and sustainability.”
Lazzaro said the situation underscores ongoing challenges in manufacturing, particularly for long-established Australian manufacturers operating in a competitive global environment.
“This situation highlights the growing strain on local manufacturers from rising costs and increased competition from imported goods,” he said.
He added that supporting local manufacturing has become increasingly important to sustaining jobs and industrial capability.
“It’s a timely reminder of why supporting Australian Made matters – to protect local jobs, strengthen our industrial capability, and ensure iconic businesses like A.H. Beard can continue to thrive into the future.”
Australian Made has called on both consumers and institutional buyers to prioritise locally produced goods, including in sectors that rely heavily on manufacturing inputs such as accommodation, healthcare, commercial operations and government procurement.
“We’re calling on Australians to back Australian Made right now,” Lazzaro said.
“That means not only everyday consumers, but also the industries that purchase at scale – including accommodation providers, healthcare, commercial sectors and government, that rely on mattresses and bedding and other local manufacturing industries.”
“Choosing Australian Made isn’t just a purchase decision – it’s an investment in our economy, our workforce, and our future.”
