THE introduction of new procurement guidelines will slash red tape and make it easier for the construction industry to access NSW Government contracts worth up to $1 million, according to Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall.
“For quite some time there has been a large net of regulation and red tape making it difficult for many contractors and tradies to work with government,” Mr Marshall said.
“Previously contractors had to apply to up to 11 different schemes that were operating in isolation across the sector.
“The introduction of the new Prequalification Scheme for General Construction Works provides businesses with one single entry point to construction contracts and a more streamlined and efficient process.
“These measures will make doing business with the NSW Government simpler, easier and more attractive for SME’s.”
Mr Marshall said that prequalified contractors would gain exposure to available work right across government, not just in isolation, which was good news for small businesses in rural and regional areas.
“Agencies too will also have greater choice as there will be a bigger pool of contractors available to them,” he said.
“Small businesses have the skills and experience to offer professional services to government projects and these reforms enable the process to be more flexible for them.
“More than 800 contractors have been automatically transitioned onto the new scheme.
“These changes have been implemented following feedback from the industry and consultation with individual contractors.”