I firmly believe that Australian businesses can and should provide greater opportunities for Indigenous suppliers to participate in the economy. By procuring both goods and services from Indigenous suppliers, we can help to create sustainable employment and strengthen Indigenous entrepreneurship, thereby improving overall economic and social outcomes for Indigenous communities.

And, while both public and private sectors have made significant inroads into driving Indigenous procurement programs, there is so much more that we can do.

At a webinar hosted by GJK Facility Services, a small panel of experts provided powerful insights into the journey of the Indigenous economy, and the benefits, challenges and future strides that Australian businesses can take to work productively with the Indigenous business sector.

Glenn Johnston (Director of Procurement & Business Support for Infrastructure NSW) discussed a way forward for Australian businesses to lead Indigenous engagement through Reconciliation Action Plans, which give procurement the framework to support Ingenious suppliers
Tim Moggridge (co-owner of NPM Indigenous) provided insights into his company’s growth, and how imperative business partners are to its success. Tim’s personal experience from the Indigenous supplier side revealed how critical social procurement practices were for Indigenous businesses and communities
Madeline Taylor (Head of Strategic Client Management in JLL’s Sourcing and Procurement Team) discussed JLL’s supplier diversity strategy, and their mature social procurement framework approach, which delivered an ethical, sustainable and inclusive supply chain.

To watch back a recording of this webinar, click here.