Major transport projects worth up to $20 million are to be fast-tracked in a new process aimed at supporting jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Department of Transport has established a Construction Panel to support small to mid-sized contractors by minimising the costs of tendering and maximising the spread of work.
Premier, Mark McGowan said expediting the delivery of road and maritime projects through the new Construction Panel would assist contractors plan and program works, save time and costs, whilst helping give local businesses certainty and retain local workers.
“Up to $140 million of transport projects will be expedited under the panel, saving jobs and protecting the future contracting capacity of local Western Australian businesses,” Mr McGowan said.
“The panel arrangements will also be considered for use as future projects come online, to ensure quicker project delivery and provide more opportunities for small to medium-sized contractors.”
Minister for Transport, Rita Saffioti said she understood the devastating impacts COVID-19 had had on industry.
“Buying rules were under way prior to the current COVID-19 emergency,” Ms Saffioti said.
“However, given the current climate, they are being amended to further reduce tendering costs and provide more opportunities for local businesses to win Government contracts,” she said.
“This new panel will fast-track major road and maritime infrastructure projects, worth up to $20 million, to support small and mid-tier businesses and save local jobs,” the Minister said.
