NSW government launches ‘toolkit’ to help small businesses secure local council contracts

A new pilot program initiated by the NSW government hopes to help small businesses win work from their local council.

The local procurement program has been designed to “cut red tape and simplify the tender process” for small businesses and councils.

NSW Minister for Small Business Damien Tudehope said the six-month pilot would be a great opportunity for small businesses to tender for local government work.

“NSW Councils spend significant funds on goods and services each year but many small businesses couldn’t compete with larger competitors for contracts,” he 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.”

In June, NSW changed procurement regulations under the Local Government Act 1993 to increase the threshold for tenders from $150,000 to $250,000, with the intention of improving opportunities for councils to engage businesses without a tender process.

The state government has also released a guide for small businesses to accompany the pilot program. It explains how to find out about opportunities with the council, how to win work, and offers a checklist and extra resources.

NSW Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock has encouraged the state’s local councils to participate in the program.

“Several councils including Georges River Council, Eurobodalla Shire Council, Campbelltown City Council and Central Coast Council have already expressed interest in the program,” she said.

This article was first published by The Mandarin.

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