Procurement has been described as the “art and science of buying and supply”. Opportunities for Desert Communities to participate in government or business-related contracts are substantial, yet have been difficult to realise. For example, governments often announce plans to enhance the capacity of desert communities to participate in local business opportunities. However, few policies result in successful outcomes. Why?
This paper reports on local and overseas experiences aimed at enabling greater community participation in procurement. A substantial literature, regulatory and policy review is supported by interviews with contracting professionals in business and government, both in Australia and internationally.