Across Biripi, Worimi and Wonnarua Country, NSWICC is continuing to build the relationships that create stronger pathways for Indigenous businesses, communities and buyers.
During a recent visit to Taree, NSWICC met with MidCoast Council to introduce Buying on Country: Supplying Local Government. The conversation explored how local government can create genuine procurement pathways for Indigenous businesses through early engagement, transparent opportunities, tender readiness and strong community connection.
Buying on Country: Supplying Local Government is an NSWICC initiative that works directly with councils to build organisational capability, improve procurement practices and establish long term relationships with Indigenous businesses and communities.
The discussion also considered the NSW Aboriginal Procurement Policy, the Local Government Act, the Local Government Procurement First Nations Scheme, and the important role councils play in regional economic development. NSWICC shared the Buying on Country pilot with Byron Shire Council as a practical example of what is possible when councils commit to taking the first step.
While on Biripi Country, the team also connected with Biripi Aboriginal Corporation Health Service, Bamara, and Ngarralinyi Radio, the Listenin' Place. Each conversation contributes to a stronger regional network grounded in trust, capability and shared ambition.
This relationship building work continues in the Hunter Valley on Wonnarua Country, where NSWICC has been meeting with Indigenous owned businesses across heavy vehicle and plant manufacturing, electrical works, civil construction and earthmoving. These businesses are already delivering quality work across the region. NSWICC's role is to help government and corporate buyers find them, understand their capability, and create pathways to opportunity.
Growing a supplier network is not about a single meeting or transaction. It takes listening, trust and ongoing connection. NSWICC looks forward to continuing this work with communities, businesses, councils and buyers across regional New South Wales.
Learn more: Buying on Country: Supplying Local Government
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