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ABMT Apparel Director Calls for Preferential Treatment for Local Manufacturers in Government Contracts
ABMT Apparel director Andrew Quinn is leading the charge for local manufacturers in Australia, calling on state and federal governments to prioritize local suppliers for future procurement contracts. Speaking at a panel hosted by Ethical Clothing Australia at the University of Sydney, Quinn emphasized the importance of long-term contracts for local suppliers, citing the significant impact it can have on businesses like ABMT.
Based in Melbourne, ABMT is a key player in the local textile product manufacturing industry, with contracts with businesses such as Workwear Group and Stuart & Heaton. While the company currently does not have any tenders for government projects, Quinn highlighted the benefits of securing long-term contracts, such as the 10-year tender with Victorian Fire Rescue.
Quinn stressed that consistent work from government contracts provides stability for manufacturing businesses, allowing them to invest in machinery, staff, training, and facilities. He emphasized that this is not just a personal desire, but a sentiment echoed across the local manufacturing supply chain.
The panel discussion also touched on the recent changes in government procurement policies, with Dr. Sarah Kaine revealing that the NSW government had lifted a ban on preferential treatment for local manufacturers. This move allows government agencies to consider local content and development opportunities when awarding contracts, supporting local industries and businesses.
However, challenges remain in ensuring ethical and sustainable practices in government procurement. Co-director of Be Slavery Free, Carolyn Kitto OAM, highlighted the difficulties faced by ethical companies in scaling up to meet government procurement requirements, while non-compliant companies expressed interest in becoming more ethical but lacked resources for transformation.
As the conversation around government procurement continues, the focus on supporting local businesses, ethical practices, and sustainability remains crucial. Quinn’s advocacy for preferential treatment for local manufacturers underscores the importance of creating a level playing field for businesses in Australia’s manufacturing sector.
