DECNet Defence Infrastructure Roundtable Series 2025
Roundtable 2: Indigenous Participation and Procurement
Date: Thursday, 12 Jun 2025
Time: 10:00–11:30 am (AEST)
Format: Online event
Cost: Free for Defence Staff and DECNet Pro Members, $110 (excl GST) for Non-Members
Synopsis:
The effective participation of Indigenous businesses in Defence infrastructure projects continues to be a significant focus, driven by policy initiatives and genuine commitment across the sector. However, some Indigenous and non-Indigenous contractors report persistent challenges related to visibility, procurement accessibility, and the effectiveness of tendering processes.
This roundtable will provide a platform for open and constructive dialogue aimed at enhancing transparency and collaboration between Defence and Indigenous businesses. Attendees will explore current procurement policies, assess recent outcomes, and identify practical recommendations to improve future practices.
Key topics to be covered:
- Current Defence procurement processes for Indigenous businesses
- Outcomes and follow-up from previous industry engagements (including the National Indigenous Roundtable Meetings held in August 2023)
- Accessibility and fairness in limited tendering arrangements
- Opportunities to build capacity and capability within Indigenous businesses
Goals of this roundtable:
- Gather industry insights on challenges and best practices
- Develop actionable recommendations for Defence to improve Indigenous procurement processes
- Identify opportunities for greater collaboration between Defence and industry stakeholders
Who should attend:
- Defence infrastructure professionals
- Indigenous business representatives
- Government and Defence procurement specialists
- Industry stakeholders committed to enhancing Indigenous engagement and outcomes
Outcomes:
- The session will be recorded, and a summary of key recommendations will be published and shared with Defence (SEG) and DECNet members
- Follow-up actions will be clearly identified and tracked to promote accountability and transparency
Have your say:
- Submit your question or suggestion for discussion via this form.