Statements
Transport—Aboriginal economic participation
Brief ministerial statement
Ms Rita Saffioti (West Swan—Minister for Transport) (9:06 am): I would like to take a few minutes to inform members of an historic milestone for Aboriginal economic participation in the delivery of Western Australia's transport infrastructure. Aboriginal-owned businesses have delivered $1 billion of work on major transport infrastructure projects. In addition, four million work hours have been completed by Aboriginal workers in the transport portfolio over the same timeframe.
In October 2021, I announced that the state government had set a target to award $700 million of the overall transport infrastructure contracts to Aboriginal businesses as well as having 3.5 million work hours completed by Aboriginal workers. The intent was to improve economic and social outcomes for Aboriginal people by providing real opportunities on major transport infrastructure projects throughout the state. The plan involves supporting Aboriginal businesses and workers through initiatives and opportunities to successfully build their capacity and capabilities. Aboriginal people are encouraged and empowered to further develop and prosper, leaving a legacy for future generations.
Importantly, these initiatives will build the number of capable and qualified businesses and workers across WA. They can help deliver future works and projects within the infrastructure industry, from construction through to maintenance and ongoing operations. The results in the first four years have far exceeded expectations and reflect the impact of strong local partnerships between government and industry, and the commitment of everyone involved.
The $1 billion milestone shows what is possible when procurement policies and partnerships are backed with genuine intent and action. The achievement demonstrates the government's commitment to closing the gap and ensuring Aboriginal people are empowered to share in the economic opportunities of the future. This government remains committed to strengthening Aboriginal participation in the transport infrastructure industry, setting new targets for future growth and continuing to remove barriers to the procurement of Aboriginal businesses in all levels of the supply chain.
