Aboriginal procurement policy transitional arrangements
The Northern Territory (NT) Government has extended the timeframe for Aboriginal entities to register to access the transitional arrangements under the Aboriginal procurement policy until 31 March 2023.
From 1 April 2023, tenderers must be able to evidence certification status at point of award. Only certified or transitioning (provisionally certified) Aboriginal entities will be recognised under the Aboriginal procurement policy.
The Aboriginal procurement policy is a targeted approach to increase Aboriginal business enterprises (ABE), community controlled organisations and Aboriginal Territorians to participate in procurement activities.
Under the policy, Aboriginal entities that want to participate in government procurement activities must be a certified or be a provisionally certified ABE.
Transitional arrangements are in place for Aboriginal entities that do not currently meet the definition of an ABE.
Aboriginal entities that want to continue to be recognised as an ABE after 31 March 2023 for government procurement purposes must:
- become a member of the Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network (NTIBN)
- sign a declaration to NTIBN declaring a commitment that the organisation intends to become a certified ABE
- develop a transition plan to become a certified entity with NTIBN
- actively work to become a certified entity by 31 December 2023.
The NTIBN is recognised by the NT Government as the peak body for Aboriginal business enterprises in the NT, and are the only certifying authority providing transitional certification.
Transitioning arrangements under the Aboriginal procurement policy will cease on 31 December 2023.
For information about the NTIBN membership and transitioning requirements contact 1300 192 164 or email info@ntibn.com.au.
For further information about the Aboriginal procurement policy, go to the Northern Territory Government website.
