Economic participation
Queensland Government is committed to advancing economic participation outcomes for First Nations peoples. We recognise the important role that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses play in shaping Queensland’s economic future.
Since 2017, the Queensland Government has procured more than $3 billion in direct spend with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses. In the 2024–25 financial year, for the first time, Queensland Government exceeded the 3% spend target with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses.
As part of our ongoing commitment to create meaningful economic opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and businesses, the Queensland Indigenous Procurement Policy has now been elevated and integrated into the Queensland Procurement Policy 2026. This will streamline and strengthen opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses to become suppliers of choice delivering high quality goods and services that benefit communities across Queensland.
We recognise the challenge of 'black cladding' and are taking action to strengthen our validation requirements to ensure that only genuine Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses benefit from these initiatives, driving real economic participation outcomes for First Nations peoples.
For government buyers
Government buyers are encouraged to find an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business on one of the following Queensland Government recognised Indigenous Business Directories.
Government agencies are encouraged to enhance their Indigenous procurement capability and increase their engagement and spend with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses through the Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism's suite of capability building offerings.
Agency Capability Building offerings
To request a bespoke agency capability building session on the Queensland Government's procurement commitments to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, please email the Economic Participation Program at enterprise@dwatsipm.qld.gov.au.
For suppliers (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses)
We deliver a range of services to enhance economic opportunities and support the growth of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses across Queensland.
We can help by:
- Working with your business to identify business development and/or support needs you may require.
- Helping government agencies and non-Indigenous businesses understand cultural protocols.
- Linking you to business support programs and services on offer by our industry, corporate and government partners.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses are encouraged to register on the Queensland Government Supplier Portal to access new procurement opportunities and become a supplier to Queensland Government.
Supplier Capability Building offerings
Join us for Queensland Small Business Month 2026
This May, we are proud to support Queensland Small Business Month (QSBM) to celebrate the vital contribution our state's 508,000 small businesses, including many Indigenous-owned businesses, make to our economy and communities. This year’s program is packed with free resources and events designed to help small business owners adapt and thrive.
- Regional expo: Come and see our DWATSIPM staff at the one of the free events in:
- Cairns (19 May)
- Gold Coast (21 May)
- Brisbane (26 May).
These expos offer workshops led by industry leaders on digital innovation, cybersecurity, financial foundations, and government procurement. Register online.
- Digital program: During May, small business owners can access a suite of online resources, including webinars, virtual ‘Ask a Mentor’ sessions and actionable ‘health check’ videos. View the digital program on the Business Queensland website.
Visit the Business Queensland website to explore the full calendar of events.
Queensland Government Supplier Roadshow 2026: Unlock opportunities. Drive impact. Grow your business.
Please check back for details about upcoming roadshows planned in 2026 and register to attend the free in-person events where you will get the opportunity to connect directly with government experts; gain insights into the Queensland Procurement Policy 2026; and learn how to create impactful solutions that align with government priorities.
- Friday 20 March 2026 Mackay
Registrations for this Roadshow have closed. - Monday 30 March 2026 Redland
Registrations for this Roadshow have closed.
Queensland Government Procurement Supplier webinar
Registrations for this webinar have closed.
For industry
Queensland Government recognises the role that industry can provide to advance the opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business within the supply chain.
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