The Andrews Labor Government is streamlining tech procurement to make it easier for small and medium-sized businesses and non-government organisations to work with government.
Minister for Government Services Danny Pearson today announced a request for tender to source a vendor responsible for managing, maintaining and enhancing a new Digital Victoria Marketplace.
The Digital Marketplace will be a centralised platform for businesses to bid for information and communications technology (ICT) contracts with the Victorian Government. It will make the supply of ICT goods and services simpler and quicker for businesses, as well as supporting social procurement and Jobs First initiatives.
A key part of stimulating the digital economy is increasing the number of Victorian businesses used to provide ICT services to government – last financial year the Government spent more than $130 million on eServices and IT infrastructure through State Purchasing Contracts.
Through the Digital Marketplace, local small and medium-sized businesses will be more visible and will get higher priority in search listings – particularly those businesses with a social enterprise focus. Businesses will also benefit from simplified contractual arrangements.
The Labor Government has listened to industry participants to understand suppliers’ challenges and needs, and the Digital Marketplace is the result.
Victorian tech companies employ more than 270,000 workers and the sector is predicted to grow by an average of 5.3 per cent a year over the next five years, making it a vital part of Victoria’s economy.
The Digital Marketplace is a key feature of the Victorian Digital Strategy 2021-26 which is focused on the needs of individuals and businesses, as well as building a thriving digital economy.
Applications for the invitation to supply close on 4 October. For more information, go to tenders.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Government Services Danny Pearson
“The Digital Marketplace will give Victorian businesses and social enterprises a better run at government contracts, and that’s good for jobs and the economy.”
“We listened to businesses – this new system will be easier to navigate and deliver great results and outstanding value for Victorians.”
