• New report identifies failings in local content policy under previous government
• McGowan Labor Government moved swiftly to address issues as part of Jobs Bill
• Passage of Bill to ensure more opportunities for WA businesses and workers in government procurement 
  
  

Premier Mark McGowan has welcomed the findings and recommendations contained in the Auditor General's report into local content in government procurement.

The Auditor General's Local Content in Government Procurement report found a lack of data collection and reporting processes meant the effectiveness of the Buy Local policy to improve local content outcomes in government procurement could not be determined.

The McGowan Labor Government has already moved swiftly to address the issues raised by the Auditor General through the Jobs Bill, a key election commitment that was introduced into State Parliament earlier this year.  

The Bill includes a requirement for a Western Australian Industry Participation Strategy (WAIPS). As part of the development of the WAIPS, local content policies and guidelines are being reviewed.

The Bill places a number of obligations on government agencies in relation to the participation of local industry, including incorporating commitments in supply contracts and reporting on achievement of commitments.

The Government supports the Auditor General's recommendations, which will be incorporated into the implementation of the Jobs Bill and the WAIPS. 

Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:

"My Government has moved swiftly to deliver the Jobs Bill, a key election commitment that will create more opportunities for local businesses and more jobs for Western Australians. 

"The Bill ensures that, where possible, local industry participation is increased in the supply of goods and services and works in WA. 

"The Auditor General's report highlights the previous government's failure to deliver in this key area, which meant WA workers missed out. 

"The Jobs Bill and the WAIPS represent a new era in State Government purchasing for both government agencies and industry that will create exciting opportunities for WA businesses and workers."