Published: 15 November 2023
Businesses and workers will have an opportunity to help shape the future of the Local Jobs First policy – Australia’s longest-standing industry participation legislation.
The Victorian Government has released a consultation paper seeking feedback on proposed reforms to the Local Jobs First Act 2003.
The Act provides local small and medium sized businesses with more opportunities to compete for both large and small government contracts, creating job opportunities, including for apprentices, trainees and cadets.
The government is proposing to strengthen the Act to ensure local workers and use of local content are prioritised on public projects.
Proposed changes focus on compliance and enforcement of Local Industry Development Plans, including increasing the Local Jobs First Commissioner’s powers, and requirements for locally-produced uniform and personal protective equipment on Strategic Projects.
Strategic Projects are valued at $50 million or more, with projects ranging from transport to healthcare to sport and tourism.
These reforms will build on policy changes introduced in June 2022 to strengthen outcomes for the local steel industry on Strategic Projects.
Since December 2014, local content requirements have been set for more than 300 Strategic Projects, with a combined total value of around $149 billion, supporting more than 50,000 jobs.
To read the consultation paper and make a submission, visit: Strengthening Victoria’s Local Jobs First Act 2003.