The Government House in Sydney Australia
The NSW Government announced a six-month pilot program that promises to facilitate the process for small businesses to win work with their local council.
Part of a NSW Government offering called Making Businesses Easier, the pilot program proposes simpler tender processes promoting an increase in direct contact between small businesses and councils.
“NSW Councils spend significant funds on goods and services each year but many small businesses couldn’t compete with larger competitors for contracts," minister for small business Damien Tudehope said.
“A toolkit has been developed to help small businesses win council contracts, while providing tips to local councils on how they can become more small business friendly.
According to Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock several councils expressed their interest in the program including Georges River Council, Eurobodalla Shire Council, Campbelltown City Council and Central Coast Council.
In June, the NSW Government changed the Local Government Act 1993 to increase the threshold for tenders from $150,000 to $250,000, which means contracts under $250,000 are considered quotes and not tenders allowing for councils to approach businesses directly.
Detailed information for interested businesses can be found here.
