More Tasmanian businesses and suppliers will secure Government contracts following a regulatory change to the Buy Local policy as part of the Liberals' 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, delivering on a key election commitment.
As part of the First 100 Days Plan, the Treasurer Michael Ferguson has today approved the regulatory change to the very successful policy, which formed part of the Strong Plan to Support Local Jobs and Investment.
"The Tasmanian Liberal Government has increased the weighting of the Economic and Social Benefits Test to 30 per cent," the Treasurer said.
"In evaluating the tenders, the benefits to Tasmanian industry are among the factors considered in the tendering process.
"By increasing the weighting, we are helping Tasmanian businesses and suppliers to secure more government contracts.
"The Liberals are the strongest supporters of Tasmanian businesses and that's why we have updated our procurement practices to ensure they match business needs and capacity.
"This boost from 25 per cent to 30 per cent will provide local businesses like Andrew Walter Constructions with increased opportunities to pick up work right here in Tasmania."
The new 30 per cent weighting will apply from August 1, 2024 when the current 25 per cent weighting expires.
The Treasurer and Minister for Infrastructure visited works underway by Andrew Walter Constructions on the West Tamar Highway on Wednesday.
"These workers are a prime example of how government investment benefits local business and local jobs," the Treasurer said.
"This $28 million contract was awarded to the Tasmanian civil engineering company, delivering 120 direct and indirect jobs for Tasmanians.
"The wages of these 120 people will flow directly into all parts of the broader Tasmanian economy in the form of goods and services purchased.
"This is good for business and good for Tasmania."
Works on the West Tamar Highway include two new additional lanes between Freshwater Point Road and Acropolis Drive, as well as new roundabouts, pedestrian crossings and pathways for cyclists.
The Project is scheduled for completion in late 2025.
