Aboriginal businesses reach $1b milestone on WA transport projects
Aboriginal-owned businesses have delivered more than $1 billion of work across WA’s transport and major infrastructure portfolio over the past five years, surpassing the $700 million target.
“It’s great to see businesses improve their Aboriginal business spend, which contributes to improving the socio-economic outcomes for Indigenous communities.
“From our data, Aboriginal businesses on average employ around 25% Indigenous employees which directly benefits their communities,” he said.
ICNWA manages the Aboriginal Business Directory WA (ABDWA) which currently lists more than 1000 Aboriginal businesses.
“The free-to-use directory is utilised by the WA Government and private organisations to identify Aboriginal businesses available for procurement and contracting opportunities,” Loh said.
Significant milestone
The $700m target was set in 2021 to improve economic and social outcomes for Aboriginal people by creating greater access to opportunities on State-funded infrastructure projects.
Exceeding the original target shows the strength of Aboriginal-owned businesses and their ability to compete for, secure and deliver complex work across construction, maintenance and operational services.
The milestone also strengthens WA’s infrastructure supply chains, expanding the pool of qualified businesses and skilled workers available to deliver current and future projects across the State.
WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the achievement highlighted the impact of “genuine” procurement policies, with each contract awarded to an Aboriginal-owned business contributing to job creation, skills development and stronger communities.
The State Government has indicated it will continue to lift Aboriginal participation in the transport infrastructure industry, including setting new targets and further reducing barriers to procurement across all levels of the transport and major infrastructure portfolio.
CCIWA’s Industry Capability Network can help you register your business on the Aboriginal Business Directory or connect you with suppliers with the right capabilities for your project. Contact the ICNWA team on (08) 9365 7623 or by email at [email protected].
