Central Coast Steps Up to Provide Essential Medical Supplies

Hundreds of businesses from regional areas, including the Central Coast, have answered the NSW Government’s call to fill gaps in the medical supply chain and help stabilise stocks of urgently-needed equipment for the fight against COVID-19.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW, Industry and Trade John Barilaro congratulated Central Coast companies for supporting the NSW Government’s Emergency Supplies portal initiative.

“Last month we faced a global shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including face masks and shields, hand sanitiser, disinfectants, gloves, surgical gowns and paper products,” Mr Barilaro said.

“The Government asked suppliers and manufacturers to help meet demand by registering relevant capacity on the portal, and we received an overwhelming response. Over 1,800 firms have registered and I’m proud to say many are from regional NSW.

“Today, thanks partly to their efforts, we’re confident we have now secured adequate stocks of PPE to meet our medium-term needs.”

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said a number of Central Coast companies had acted quickly to produce and source essential medical supplies.

“It’s fantastic to see local companies like Zibara, Sirron Holdings and SpotGo play an important role in NSW’s fight against COVID-19,” Mr Crouch said.

“Everyone needs to play a part in the fight against COVID-19 and I am so pleased that our community is able to rally together at this difficult time.

“Not only are local companies producing essential medical supplies that help to save lives, they are also saving jobs and businesses on the Central Coast.”

NSW Government procurement orders have commenced through the portal and the Government is also helping councils, businesses and industry connect with suppliers through a new, public PPE supplies portal.

To access the portal, go to: https://buy.nsw.gov.au.

MEDIA: Ben Sheath | 0403 767 636