Aboriginal Economic Development

In reply to the Hon. S.G. WADE (18 June 2015).

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Employment, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, Minister for Manufacturing and Innovation, Minister for Automotive Transformation, Minister for Science and Information Economy): The South Australian Government has partnered with Supply Nation to develop a South Australia-based online register of Aboriginal businesses called Aboriginal Business Connect. The South Australian Government is listed as an official Supply Nation Member.

Since last year’s budget announcement we have been working to ensure that South Australian Aboriginal businesses have the greatest opportunity to be engaged with government procurement. This has been strengthened significantly with the launch of Aboriginal Business Connect.

This kind of online Aboriginal business register is exactly what South Australian Aboriginal businesses have asked for. It will connect the Aboriginal business sector to state and national procurement and subcontracting opportunities, and support implementation of the Aboriginal Economic Participation Initiative. I am advised there are currently 65 Aboriginal businesses going through the registration process.

Aboriginal Business Connect is linked to Supply Nation’s national business list, Indigenous Business Direct, and provides a one-stop shop for South Australian Aboriginal businesses to be registered not only on the South Australian site, but also with Supply Nation.