We advocate for a requirement that VPP and IPP businesses are the first to be approached to quote for contracts delivered in specified areas.

How would a ‘mandatory set-aside’ clause work?  

For contracts in specified portfolios or skill category areas, the Commonwealth buyer must offer a Veteran business the opportunity to deliver the goods or services on a value-for-money basis before approaching the open market (including the use of standing offer panels).

The Commonwealth buyer must, at a minimum, search the registered database to identify if a Veteran business is able to deliver the goods or services.

• If a Veteran business is identified the buyer must determine whether they offer value for money.
• If they do offer value for money then the contract must be offered to them.
• If the Veteran business does not offer value for money the outcome must be documented before ordinary procurement processes are followed.