Minister Barr: ACT Govt procurement to give CBR small businesses the edge
- Written by ACT Government
Released 07/09/2016
The ACT Government is supporting more local jobs by working with Canberra’s excellent local businesses to grow and develop their capabilities.
Supporting growth in industries outside of the Australian Public Service is crucial to our city’s long term sustainability, ensuring there are jobs for Canberrans. As the Federal Liberal government continues to sack Canberrans, we must create jobs in other areas to grow our economy.
The Canberra Region Local Industry Participation Policy requires government to consider every opportunity for competitive local businesses, including Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) when awarding contracts.
This is something that local businesses have been asking for, as it supports local jobs and develops local capability. By supporting local businesses to play a stronger role as prime contractors in larger government procurement, we are also keeping smart and talented people in the nation’s capital. Canberra businesses that prove themselves with ACT Government contracts will be in a better position to bid for other national and international contracts, which helps them grow their business.
The Government’s Local Industry Advocate, Kate Lundy, will work with industry sectors and ACT Government directorates to implement the policy across the ACT Government.
“Supporting local businesses to win government work creates more jobs for Canberrans and contributes to our culture of creativity and innovation,” Ms Lundy said.
“This policy shows the Government’s commitment to ensuring local jobs and investments through greater collaboration are important in developing and strengthening Canberra as an innovative liveable city.”
The policy will be implemented from 1 January 2017 for new procurements. Prior to this date, an education program for industry and government will be introduced.
- Statement ends -
Section: Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases
