Supplying to the government in Western Australia (WA) can be a lucrative opportunity for Aboriginal businesses. In recent years, the WA government has implemented several initiatives and programs to facilitate the participation of Aboriginal businesses in government procurement processes. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how Aboriginal businesses can effectively engage and supply to the WA government.
Understanding the WA Government's Commitment
The WA government is committed to supporting Aboriginal businesses through its Aboriginal Procurement Policy (APP). This policy aims to increase the participation of Aboriginal businesses in government contracts. Key elements of the APP include:
Targets for Procurement
The policy mandates agencies to award a percentage of their contracts to registered Aboriginal businesses according to the following targets for each financial year:
- 3% in 2020-2021
- 5% in 2022-2023
- 4% in 2023-2024
The performance results for each financial year are documented in the APP Performance Reports.
Supportive Measures
The APP provides various supportive measures, including capacity-building programs and workshops to help Aboriginal businesses understand and navigate the procurement process.
Steps for Aboriginal Businesses to Supply to the WA Government
1. Register on the Aboriginal Business Directory WAThe first step for any Aboriginal business looking to supply to the WA government is to register on the Aboriginal Business Directory WA. This directory is a vital resource for government agencies and contractors looking to engage with Aboriginal businesses.
2. Meet Eligibility Criteria
Ensure your business meets the eligibility criteria defined under the APP. This typically includes being a majority Aboriginal-owned business and having a presence in Western Australia.
Aboriginal Businesses:
- be established and fully operational;
- be registered as a business in WA;
- have an Australian Business Number (ABN);
- be at least 50 per cent owned by an Aboriginal interest; and
- the Aboriginal interests are represented in the management and operations of the entity.
You must provide details of any changes in the ownership of the business when they take place.
3. Understand Procurement Processes:
Familiarize yourself with the government's procurement processes. The WA Department of Finance provides resources and training to help businesses understand how to tender for government contracts. Information on procurement can be found on the Supplying to Government page.
The following resources provide further information on getting started with tendering and step-by-step guides on the tender and procurement process:
4. Engage with Procurement Panels
Aboriginal businesses should seek to be included on relevant procurement panels. These panels pre-qualify suppliers for various types of goods and services, streamlining the procurement process for government buyers.
5. Leverage Support Programs
The government offers support programs that provide grants and assistance to enhance the capacity and capability of Aboriginal businesses. The Aboriginal Business Capability Building Program aims to empower Aboriginal businesses to engage in contracts with the WA Government for the supply of goods, services, community services, and construction projects. These programs provide support for businesses in relation to:
- tendering skills,
- business development,
- internal governance, and contractual compliance requirements
6. Participate in Workshops and Networking Events
Attend workshops, information sessions, and networking events organized by the WA Department of Finance and other related bodies. These events are crucial for gaining insights into upcoming tenders and building relationships with procurement officers and other businesses. Below is a list of workshops and events that are updated regularly:
Prepare Comprehensive Tenders
When responding to tenders, ensure that your submissions are comprehensive, competitive, and aligned with the requirements specified in the tender documents. Highlight your business’s unique strengths, capabilities, and the value it can bring to the government.
Below are some resources to help understand the different terms you might come across as well as tender templates and guides to help you get started preparing for tenders:
- Procurement
- Glossary of tendering terms
- What is a Unique Selling Point?
- Introduction to Tendering eBook
- Templates and Guides
Key Resources and Contacts
- WA Department of Finance: Provides extensive resources and guidance on the procurement process.
- Aboriginal Business Directory WA: Essential for visibility and engagement with government procurement opportunities.
By leveraging these resources and understanding the procurement landscape, Aboriginal businesses can effectively position themselves to secure government contracts in Western Australia.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Department of Finance's Aboriginal Businesses Supplying Government page.
