Australian Owned has welcomed the Queensland Government’s new Queensland Procurement Policy 2026 (QPP 2026), describing it as a landmark step toward strengthening local industry, empowering small businesses, and restoring confidence in doing business with government.

The policy represents the most comprehensive procurement reform in decades, underpinned by five key pillars: Value for Queensland, Local Opportunities, Easy to Do Business, Open to New Ideas, and Practical Economic, Environmental and Social Impact.

The Queensland Government spends around $35 billion each year on goods and services. Under the new framework, at least 30 per cent of procurement by value will be sourced from Queensland small-to-medium enterprises, with clear commitments to buying Queensland-made products and supporting regional manufacturing and supply chains.

“For too long, local businesses have been locked out of government contracts by red tape and unnecessary complexity,” said Micheal Leighton, Government Relations & Public Affairs Manager for Australian Owned.

“The 2026 Procurement Policy finally levels the playing field giving Queensland-owned and operated businesses a fair shot at competing for the billions spent by government each year.”

Mr Leighton said the policy was a major victory for Queensland’s business community and a positive signal that government is listening to local industry.

“This reform ensures taxpayer dollars stay in Queensland communities, creating jobs, driving innovation, and strengthening our local manufacturing base. It’s exactly the kind of policy our members have been calling for,” he said.

“When government buys local, it’s not just purchasing a product or a service, it’s investing in Queenslanders, in their skills, and in the industries that power our state.”

The new policy also introduces: • Simplified procurement processes to make it easier for local suppliers to engage with government. • Greater visibility through a new public Procurement Spend Portal and Forward Procurement Pipeline. • Dedicated support for local manufacturers and regional enterprises. • Targets for Indigenous businesses, social enterprises, and ethical suppliers.

“This policy sets a new benchmark for other states to follow,” Mr Leighton added.

“Queensland is leading the way in ensuring that procurement isn’t just about price, it’s about people, performance, and purpose. This is about building a sustainable, sovereign future for our state.”

“The fact that the Government has listened to industry and responded with a practical, transparent, and locally focused framework is a strong sign that Queensland is open for business - and ready to back its own,” Mr Leighton said.

About Australian Owned Australian Owned is a national certification body dedicated to promoting and protecting Australian ownership across all industries. The Australian Owned Certification Mark helps consumers, businesses, and government identify and support companies that are majority Australian-owned, strengthening local jobs, supply chains, and sovereign capability.

Media Contact: Micheal Leighton Government Relations & Public Affairs Manager BOSSCAP Group [email protected] 0417 730 909