Senate Inquiry examines procurement of Australian products

AUSVEG has been called to appear before a Senate Finance and Public Administration References Committee Inquiry on Australian Government Procurement. The organisation has been asked to submit a series of recommendations on how to improve the government’s procurement practices.

The inquiry examines the Commonwealth Government’s use of Australian goods and services in its departments and agencies, and the economic, social and environmental benefits of using Australian goods and services.

“AUSVEG commends the Senate Finance and Public Administration References Committee on its proactive approach to evaluating the effectiveness of current government procurement practices, and I commend Senator John Madigan for championing this issue and helping to bring this inquiry about,” said AUSVEG Public Affairs Manager William Churchill.

“This inquiry presents a real opportunity for the Australian Government to reform its procurement practices, to ensure a greater level of support for Australian businesses, including food producers and suppliers.”

In its formal submission, AUSVEG has encouraged the government to consider ways to make its procurement policies more efficient and to support Australian goods and services that will secure long-term strategic capabilities of supply for the nation.

“The purchasing power and far-reaching activity of the Australian Government can have a profound impact on the sustainability and ongoing development of suppliers of goods and services,” said Churchill.

“Government support, through the purchase of wholly Australian vegetable products, would greatly assist operations in our food processing industry, a sector which has seen tough times over the past three years.”

“An appropriate procurement policy and framework ensures that the Australian community leverages maximum benefit from the activities of the Australian Government.”

AUSVEG says it recognises the need for balanced policy that ensures Australian taxpayers receive value for money while also supporting businesses that are operating within Australia.

“The current procurement practices of the Australian Government need to provide stronger support for Australian suppliers as effectively as possible, so the Senate inquiry being held today will be a valuable opportunity for the Commonwealth to assess ways to better align its procurement with nation-building practices that support Australian business,” Churchill said.