A new policy guiding how the City of Greater Geelong procures goods, works and services has strengthened the Council's commitment to achieving positive social outcomes.
The updated Procurement Policy, endorsed by the Council during December's meeting, also includes weighting to encourage the use of local suppliers.
And it confirms sustainability, innovation and collaboration as further key considerations in the procurement process.
The policy will soon be accompanied by a Social Procurement Framework featuring key targets to support, for example, employment opportunities for residents in areas of disadvantage, Indigenous businesses or individuals, and gender equity.
The framework is being developed and is expected to be in place by July 2022. Mayor Stephanie Asher said the Council recognised the need to make sure the City's spending benefits the local community.
"With annual procurement of around $240 million, it's important we channel our investment to support local businesses and traditionally disadvantaged groups wherever we can," Mayor Asher said.
"Of course, we also have a responsibility to spend ratepayer funds wisely, so this policy emphasises value for money alongside the local and social outcomes we're aiming to achieve."
The City of Greater Geelong is already a signatory to the:
• GROW initiative, which aims to create employment opportunities for areas of high unemployment in the G21 region including Norlane, Corio, Whittington and Moolap; and
• Supply Nation, which connects verified Indigenous businesses with corporate, government and not-for-profit organisations.
Councillor Anthony Aitken, Chair of the Finance portfolio, said the policy represented a significant change to the Council's procurement approach.
"Up until now price has been the main focus of our tender process, but this policy is introducing a major shift to signify that equality, sustainability and innovation are all important to the Council group," Cr Aitken said.
"Council spends a large annual amount through our procurement and this policy makes it clear we want to make a genuine difference in our community in the way we direct that investment.
"It means we will seek out and engage with businesses that offer opportunities to people from disadvantaged groups, from Indigenous business enterprises, and those who support gender equity.
"It is an industry leading policy that will soon be supported by some key targets that will keep us focused on achieving our desired outcomes."
