Boost to Aboriginal contractors in first Water Corporation tradeshow

• Water Corporation opens doors to Aboriginal-owned businesses
• Key component of Water Corporation's Reconciliation Action Plan
• McGowan Government committed to supporting local businesses and jobs

Water Minister Dave Kelly today officially launched the Water Corporation's first Aboriginal Supplier Tradeshow dedicated to wholly Aboriginal-owned and operated businesses in Western Australia.

A total of 30 Aboriginal suppliers are showcasing their businesses to different sections of the Water Corporation at its head office in Leederville, with other companies and government agencies also invited to attend.

Aboriginal suppliers taking part in the tradeshow come from a range of industries including civil construction, electrical, plumbing, water/wastewater services, employment services, office stationery supplies and landscape gardening.

The Water Corporation is committed to fostering partnerships with Aboriginal suppliers across the State as a key part of its Reconciliation Action Plan, which assists in the ongoing growth of Aboriginal economic development and jobs.

Comments attributed to Water Minister Dave Kelly:

"The McGowan Government is committed to ensuring wherever possible, money spent by the State is used to support local businesses and create new jobs for Western Australians.

"The Aboriginal Supplier Tradeshow is one of the first of its kind in WA, and seeks to encourage Aboriginal economic development and employment across the State.

"This strongly supports our 'Buy Local' policy and in a competitive marketplace the tradeshow is the perfect forum for these Aboriginal suppliers to gain more exposure and growth opportunities.

"I congratulate the Water Corporation on putting together this great initiative. It is encouraging to see how much positive interest has been generated."

Comments attributed to Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt:

"I congratulate all of the business owners who are getting involved in this tremendous event.

"It's great to see so many Aboriginal business owners looking to grow their businesses in such a collaborative way.

"I wish the event every success and look forward to its growth in future years."