Gem Purchasing system helps local firm capture prison job

10/09/02
Gem Purchasing, the Western Australian Government's e-procurement system, has chalked up another milestone.
Recently, the Bunbury trade depot of Wattyl Australia became the provider for the 20,000th requisition - or order - issued through Gem (the 'Government Electronic Market').
State Development Minister Clive Brown said the requisition - for paint - came from Bunbury Regional Prison, again highlighting the fact that Gem had the capacity to direct buyers to local businesses first.
"This milestone is yet another illustration that Gem Purchasing is a great advertisement for the State Government's commitment to local content," Mr Brown said.
He said the Government was committed to electronic commerce and to ensuring local companies get a 'fair go' in seeking Government contracts.
"Gem Purchasing scores on both these counts," the Minister said.
"The Government recently released its revised 'Buy Local' policy as part of fulfilling a pre-election commitment.
"It will give increased support for WA businesses throughout the State."
Mr Brown said Gem was more than an online buying tool.
"It gives visibility to small and regional business and helps create a level playing field where suppliers of all sizes and in all locations can access a huge State-wide marketplace," he said.
The latest milestone also indicates how quickly the use of Gem Purchasing is growing.
Gem began its purchase order capacity in July 2001, and it took eight months before the first milestone of 10,000 requisitions was reached in March this year.
It has only taken another four months to achieve the second 10,000 requisitions.
Wattyl Paints Bunbury manager Layton Spry said Gem was a particularly easy system to use.
"It certainly helps us to access opportunities in our area," Mr Spry said.
"It's easy to follow and certainly has achieved results for us."
Minister's office: 9222 9699