Tasmania has introduced a streamlined approach to government procurement, with the state government rolling out a single-form tendering process to reduce red tape and make it easier for local businesses to win public sector contracts.
Treasurer Eric Abetz said the change is designed to simplify engagement with government and lower barriers for suppliers, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.
“These changes are a big win for local businesses. We are reducing paperwork so businesses can focus on what they do best,” he said.
“We have strong business conditions, confident businesses, and we plan to keep it that way because it benefits every single Tasmanian.”
Under the new system, businesses bidding for lower-value government work will no longer need to navigate multiple forms and duplicative requirements. Instead, a single, consistent form will be used across agencies.
This is supported by updated Request for Quotation documents, refreshed guidance materials, a newly introduced Supplier Code of Conduct and new materials to support agencies in applying the Buy Local Policy.
The changes apply to procurements below set thresholds, generally under $250,000 for goods and services and up to $500,000 for construction.
Higher-value or more complex contracts will continue to follow existing procurement processes.
The Tasmanian Government has framed the reform as part of a broader effort to support local industry and improve access to government opportunities.
In February, it signed a Business-Government Charter with the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, committing to greater contracting with local businesses.
The charter acts as a model litigant in any contractual disputes, while also ensuring that invoices from small and family businesses are paid within 14 days.
