Paytners manager buys back Queensland procurement strategy
A TOWNSVILLE business is backing the State Government’s new Buy Queensland procurement strategy, saying it is boosting the economy.
Paynters North Queensland manager Michael Koen said the policy ensured capable and competitive local builders, as well their subcontractors and suppliers, were given a fair opportunity to tender for projects in the region.
“This policy has assisted us in achieving significant growth in Townsville despite challenging conditions,” he said.
“We believe the policy has been successful in building regional areas while delivering value… for the taxpayer.”
Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke said the response to the new strategy had been so strong in the North that three Buy Queensland information sessions had been held in Townsville.
“Buy Queensland is good for North Queensland businesses, because when we spend money in North Queensland that money goes to supporting jobs, apprenticeships, and boosts the local economy,” Mrs O’Rourke said.
“Almost 230 suppliers and government buyers at the North Queensland information sessions heard how the strategy prioritises the use of local suppliers and how we are making it easier to do business with government.
“Throughout North Queensland, there are more than $19 million of projects proposed for the next three months.”
Under Buy Queensland – which came into effect on September 1 – businesses are given a priority weighting of up to 30 per cent when tendering.
The policy is also committed to providing opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses.
Paynters recently partnered with TAFE North, Construction Skills Queensland and the Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships in Townsville to deliver a Regional Training and Development Program with an emphasis on indigenous employment and upskilling.
“The success of this program has resulted in Paynters securing the Major Award in Diversity at the Master Builders Queensland Housing and Construction Awards,” Mr Koen said.
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