WA-MAID to receive more consultation with industry

16/9/02
State Development Minister Clive Brown has called on the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry to provide input to a draft program to help develop a strong and competitive local ICT industry.
Under the proposed WA-MAID program (Western Australian Major Alliances for Industry Development), ICT companies which accrue more than $5million in sales to Government agencies would be required to undertake a range of activities - such as R&D or export of goods and services, technology transfer or even alliances with the start-up of small to medium-sized ICT enterprises - which develop the local ICT industry.
Mr Brown said he was aware there were some concerns about the WA-MAID program, which is being developed by the Department of Industry and Technology.
"DoIT has always indicated that the mechanics of how the WA-MAID program will be implemented are in draft form," he said.
"In fact the word 'draft' is stamped on the program guidelines available on its website.
"We are in the middle of the review process and still consulting with industry.
"If the industry has suggestions for different mechanisms for the program to help develop the local industry, I would encourage them to make a submission.
"DoIT has indicated that the WA-MAID program will not commence until the industry consultation phase has been satisfactorily completed, and that the application of the program will not be retrospective."
Mr Brown said an addendum was being issued for current and future ICT tenders, stating that the application of the WA-MAID program would not commence until a final set of guidelines had been issued. The ICT industry had been advised of this position.
The WA Government introduced the proposed WA-MAID program as part of its revised Buy Local Policy, on July 1.
The Buy Local Policy, including WA-MAID, was endorsed by Cabinet.
WA-MAID will replace a range of previous mechanisms, including the Commonwealth's Partnerships for Development and SPIDA programs, aimed at developing the ICT sector.
Mr Brown said the aim of WA-MAID was to get large suppliers to help develop a dynamic, globally competitive local ICT industry.
"The WA-MAID program aims to use Government buying power to achieve this development for the local ICT industry," he said.
The Minister said WA-MAID was directed at large companies and those suppliers capable of winning large Government contracts.
"I am sensitive to the concerns of the ICT industry and I repeat that the program will not go ahead until industry has been properly consulted," he said.
Submissions to the WA-MAID program can be made by phone on 9222 5808, fax on 9222 5869 or by e-mail to brobins@indtech.wa.gov.au

Minister's office: 9222 9699