Smaller tech companies in Fairfax will benefit from changes to the Commonwealth’s ICT (Information and Communications Technology) procurement rules.
Ted O’Brien MP welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to target a greater share of its multi-billion dollar annual ICT spend toward small to medium sized Aussie companies.
“The nature of technology is that it can be delivered from almost anywhere,” said Mr O’Brien.
“With these changes, I strongly encourage local tech businesses to register on the Government’s Digital Marketplace and keep a close eye on contracts and offers.”
The Government’s reforms include an immediate cap on ICT contracts, restricting them to $100 million in value and/or three years’ duration.
This means large contracts will be broken down into smaller parts, allowing smaller businesses to provide products and services directly to Government, rather than as a subcontractor to a larger provider.
Other reforms to be implemented during the next year will help level the playing field for small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) including standard ICT contract terms, dynamic pricing and an ‘ask the market’ capability.
Assistant Minister for Digital Transformation Angus Taylor said the new rules would significantly grow the SME tech sector in Australia and encourage greater levels of innovation in government service delivery.
“The entrepreneurial spirit of small and medium sized businesses is a driver of innovation. We know there are great ideas out there and we are keen to encourage tech companies in areas like Fairfax to pitch their solutions,” Assistant Minister Taylor said.
For information on the Digital Marketplace please visit https://marketplace.service.gov.au/
For more information on the ICT procurement changes please visit https://www.dta.gov.au/what-we-do/policies-and-programs/ict-procurement/