The state government has awarded nearly $254 million worth of contracts to 119 Aboriginal organisations in the past year, with the total boosted by two large health contracts.
The state government has awarded nearly $254 million worth of contracts to 119 Aboriginal organisations in the past year, with the total boosted by two large health contracts.
The Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia – a peak body representing 23 community health services – was awarded by far the largest contract, worth $31 million.
Kalgoorlie-based Bega Garnbirringu Health Services was awarded a $7.4 million contract.
Joint venture building company GBSC Yurra continued its track record of winning government contracts – it won contracts last year worth $8 million.
Another winner was labour hire company Indigenous Managed Services, led by Garry Jaffrey - it won multiple contracts worth $5.6 million.
The total number of contracts awarded to Aboriginal organisations last year represented 5.6 per cent of all state government contracts.
The total number of contracts awarded to Aboriginal businesses represented 5.6 per cent of all state government contracts.
That exceeded the 3 per cent target under its Aboriginal Procurement Policy.
Since the policy was implemented four years ago, Aboriginal businesses have been awarded $821 million worth of government contracts.
The 2021-22 total was the highest in dollar terms, though the percentage fell from the record 6.45 per cent in 2020-21.
Main Roads Western Australia was one of the biggest contributors last year – it awarded 40 contracts to Aboriginal businesses, equal to 8.9 per cent of its total.
The Department of Communities awarded 38 contracts, equal to 12.9 per cent.
The Department of Planning Lands and Heritage awarded 13 contracts, equal to 15.3 per cent.
Agencies that failed to meet the 3 per cent target included South Regional TAFE, South Metropolitan Health Service and Lotterywest.
More than half the contracts in 2021-22 were awarded to Aboriginal businesses for projects in regional Western Australia.
Finance and Aboriginal Affairs Minister Tony Buti said he was proud of the progress made so far.
“I hope this is just the start,” he added.
“The Aboriginal business sector continues to strengthen, and through their growth we are seeing more significant government contracts awarded.
“The results from the projects speak for themselves, and frequently contracts are given to businesses with far superior connections to the communities they are working in.”
Mr Buti said the contracts awarded last year included for goods and services in the building and construction industry, creative industries, environmental management and importantly for culturally safe consultation services to support government agency service delivery.
