The Andrews Labor Government is making sure everyone gets a fair go with Victorian Government departments and agencies to use their buying power to deliver social and sustainable outcomes for all Victorians.
Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll and Minister for Finance Robin Scott today launched the Victorian Social Procurement Framework at social enterprise hub Donkey Wheel House.
The whole-of-Government approach to social procurement is an Australian first and will apply to purchases of all goods, services and construction by departments and agencies.
The framework will mean businesses who use social and disability enterprises or Aboriginal businesses in their tenders for government contracts will have a competitive edge over those who don’t.
This will create jobs for those facing barriers to employment including Aboriginal people, long-term jobseekers, at-risk women, victims and survivors of family violence, people with a disability and young Victorians.
Victoria has a successful track record of leveraging its spend on major projects, including Level Crossing Removals, the Metro Tunnel, and the Westgate Tunnel to deliver social and sustainable outcomes.
This initiative builds on Victoria’s national leadership in the social enterprise sector, where more than 3,500 social enterprises operate and contribute more than $5 billion to the Victorian economy.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll
“This Australian first, whole-of-Government approach, will deliver real benefits to those Victorians struggling to find work.”
“Social procurement ensures that value for money is not solely focused on the cheapest price, but also maximises social and economic benefits for all Victorians.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Finance Robin Scott
“This framework gives social value for Victorians while delivering valuable services and infrastructure for Victoria.”
“This Framework shows the Andrews Labor Government is leading the way by ensuring its purchasing decisions can add value that benefits all Victorians.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020