#Business2032: What the Olympics mean for Queensland business procurement
Businesses across Queensland placed to make the most of procurement opportunities for the Olympic Games need to know details of what projects are in the pipeline so they are able to plan and invest.
Already the Olympics can present small and medium enterprises with significant procurement opportunities for projects both in the medium and long term in the lead-up to the games, Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland Senior Policy Advisor Gus Mandigora said.
There are especially promising opportunities in the building construction and maintenance, general goods and services, information and communication technology, and transport infrastructure and services categories but the scope of the work needed is not yet confirmed.
“Before we get to the delivery stage, and before spectators, athletes and their teams descend on the South East, there is more work to do to ensure Queensland small to medium sized enterprises are able to reap the legacy of the games,” Mr Mandigora said.
“That legacy is not only an improved small to medium sized enterprise procurement system but opportunities for investment and upscaling in those businesses.
“That could mean construction companies diversify into larger infrastructure projects, smaller companies could forge sub-contracting relationships with larger companies, hire companies investing in vehicles or small businesses committing to upskilling or on-boarding new workers to make sure they’re ready to jump at new procurement opportunities.”
Mr Mandigora said an event as significant as the Olympics had the potential to bring substantial benefits to business both in the South East and regionally – potential that would only be realised if government and business worked together from the start.
“Now is the time to get into more detailed dialogue with the government so we can understand exactly what opportunities exist which will allow businesses to plan and invest,” he said.
“We look forward to seeing what the plan for small business is.
“The games are significant for business across the state, not just in the South East.
“We’d like to see the legacy encompass improved tender processes for small to medium sized enterprises, specifically making it easier for small businesses to bid for projects.
“We would also like to see more joined up promotion of Queensland as a destination of choice for tourism and business so regional small to medium sized enterprises benefit from the increased spotlight on the state."
CCIQ media contact
Emma Clarke
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