Tasmanian small businesses are expected to benefit from a series of workshops being held around the State to help them learn more about Government tender processes.

 

Around 70 small business operators are attending the first workshop in Hobart this afternoon, with more to be held in Launceston and Burnie early next month.

 

The Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business, Rebecca White, said helping Tasmanian businesses access Government tenders was fulfilling a commitment through the Tasmanian Small Business Strategy.

 

"Over the last two years, more than 80 per cent of the State Government's procurement of goods and services, where at least one Tasmanian company competed, resulted in one or more contracts going to local businesses," she said.

 

"Despite this, a number of operators have said they need more information on the requirements, processes and guidelines for tendering.

 

"This is why we've gathered experts from various departments - including Treasury, Police and Emergency Management and the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and the Arts - to help answer business operators' questions directly.

 

"Local members of the digital coach program will also be available to talk about the importance of businesses establishing an easily-found online presence."

 

The Minister for Economic Development, David O'Byrne, said the forums were aimed at addressing key questions from small business operators.

 

"These workshops are designed to give business operators a better understanding of what's involved in applying for a tender, how to find out when a tender is open, what documentation they need, and how they can improve their chances of winning a government contract," he said.

 

"We want to help give local businesses the best possible start, and we're also reviewing the tendering resources available to small businesses, to identify any gaps and ensure all relevant information is available through the new Business Tasmania Online web portal, which will be launched later this year."

 

Further workshops will be held in Launceston on Wednesday 4 July from 4.30 pm until 7.30 pm at the Tramsheds and in Burnie on Thursday July 5 at the Burnie Arts and Function Centre from 4.30 pm until 7.30 pm.

 

Business operators are encouraged to register for the workshops by contacting Business Point on 1 800 440 026, or by emailing businesspoint@development.tas.gov.au