13 May 2014

Small business to benefit from new Commonwealth contracting arrangements

A new unit will be set up to provide specialist advice on contracts and to ensure small businesses are not disadvantaged as part of Commonwealth Departments tendering and procurement processes.

The Abbott Government has allocated $2.8 million over four years to deliver on this important commitment which will help small businesses access Commonwealth contracts.

Small businesses will play a key part in the Abbott Government's action strategy to build a strong, prosperous economy and a safe and secure Australia.

Small businesses have said contracting documents and accompanying obligations, including requirements to have very expensive insurance, can be overly complex and impose barriers to in tendering for contracts.

The $2.8 million in funding in the next four years will set up a Department of Finance unit to work with small business to develop procurement guidance material tailored specifically for small business.