Local businesses to receive access to government tenders and contracts

Small businesses on the Central Coast will soon have better access to Government tenders and contracts, thanks to a new $5 million support program.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the NSW Small Business Commission would deliver a four-year program to help local businesses submit tenders and negotiate Government contracts.

“With thousands of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) on the Central Coast, this is fantastic news for local workers,” Mr Crouch said.

“The NSW Government spends over $40 billion every single year on construction as well as the procurement of goods and services.

“Nearly half of that already goes to SMEs, but I want to ensure Central Coast businesses are aware of the opportunities that exist and receive assistance with Government tendering processes.

“We hope that this $5 million support program can also support local economic recovery in the wake of COVID-19.”

Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said small businesses make up 97.5 per cent of all businesses in NSW, and more work could be generated for these businesses through existing Government spending.

“A small business exemption will also allow NSW Government departments to buy directly from small businesses for any purchases up to $50,000, even if there is a mandated whole-of-government contract in place,” Mr Tudehope said.

NSW Small Business Commissioner Chris Lamont said the Commission would develop targeted information and support to assist small businesses to put their best proposals forward.

“For some SMEs it’s hard to know where to start – this program will provide practical support and assistance,” Mr Lamont said.

Businesses can register and search for existing opportunities to supply to the NSW Government at: https://suppliers.buy.nsw.gov.au/.