The expo was opened with a welcome address before formally launching the Aboriginal Procurement Policy (APP) on 29 March at the opulent Optus Stadium.
“This expo provides a unique opportunity for the Aboriginal business sector to showcase the range of quality goods and services available to government, and to build and strengthen business relationships,” said the Hon Ben Wyatt, Treasurer, and Minister for Finance, Energy and Aboriginal Affairs.
From 1 July 2018, government departments will be required to award contracts to registered Aboriginal businesses, consistent with progressive targets increasing to three per cent. The targets will apply to all government agencies and government trading enterprises when purchasing goods, services, community services and works.
Wilco Electrical Pty Ltd was one of 70 Aboriginal businesses to spruik their wares to the enthusiastic 400 public and private sector crowd.
“This is the best expo, with the greatest level of engagement from attendees that I have experienced Australia wide,” Dwayne Rowland from Wilco Electrical said.
A short speakers program provided the opportunity for government leaders in Aboriginal procurement to discuss initiatives and collaborations currently underway between government agencies and the Aboriginal business sector. The Q&A panel comprised of Director Generals from Finance, Primary Industries and Regional Development, Communities and the CEO from the Water Corp.
The Department of Finance assisted the Minister to deliver this election commitment as outlined in the Plan for Jobs. Government Procurement’s Social Procurement Initiatives (SPI) team developed the APP. SPI is undertaking implementation activities and will be responsible for monitoring and reporting agencies’ and GTEs achievement of the targets.
The team is delivering an education and training program on the Policy throughout the state and training for both Aboriginal businesses and government agencies.
For more information on the APP email spi@finance.wa.gov.au.
