Credit: Masaaki Komori via Unsplash
The NSW government has ignored requests to review its $78million State main media tender that excludes independent media agencies and favors foreign players, according to industry body Independent Media Agencies of Australia (IMAA).
IMAA Chief Executive Sam Buchanan and other industry representatives have met with the state’s Minister of Customer Services, Victor Dominello, and other state officials over the past 10 past months and counting, calling for an urgent amendment to the expression of interest (EOI) and a review of the process.
The tender has progressed and a shortlist of multinational agencies will soon be announced, with independent media agencies not having passed the first stage.
Dominello’s office made it possible for independent media agencies to be part of the New South Wales Digital Communications and Advertising Services program.
This lists pre-qualified advertising and digital communication service providers and is managed by the Customer Service Department. However, it does not include media agencies on its list of 11 capabilities, only “digital communications”.
The NSW government’s own procurement rules that all government service contracts over $3 million must include “10% allocated for SME participation” were also ignored.
“It is now a stand-alone conclusion that the NSW government will not support Australian businesses and send the money to another international economy in the UK, US or France,” Buchanan said.
“The EOI process has clearly weeded out Australian independent agencies. It’s un-Australian and anti-competitive at a time when independents need their government’s support. It’s a terrible message to send to Australian businesses. We’re not asking for a free kick, just a chance to compete.
“Collectively grouping independent media agencies into the Advertising and Digital Communications Services program is far-fetched and only caters to niche digital services and does not even include media agency services.
“The NSW government has also handed over the 10% SME allowance for its Treasury contracts, which is another rabbit hole to negotiate. We are incredulous that the NSW government has turned its back on Australian business .”
In August of last year, the IMAA implored Dominello and the state government to make the following changes to the EOI:
- Review and modify the EOI process in its current format, as it excludes independent agencies
- Ensure an equal share of government campaigns goes to independent agencies
- Australian independent agencies are included in the government’s preferred vendor lists
- To ensure an equal distribution and fair balance of all government campaigns, an independent voice should be ensured within the selection committee.
A freedom of information request from the IMAA asked the NSW government to release the members of its advisory committee, who advise the government on the EOI of mainstream media, which was ignored.
“If the New South Wales government were to look into the independent media agency sector, it would find a slew of smart, nimble and successful Australian businesses, employing over 2,000 Australians,” says Buchanan.
“IMAA has worked hard to level the playing field for freelancers, with a code of conduct, group trade credit agreements, group search and services agreements, a diversity council, partnerships with media owners and industry associations, upcoming events and more for our 130+ members.
“It is incredibly disappointing that we have been excluded from this contract which only favors foreign companies.”
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