More than 400 people representing government, industry and SMEs came together at Parliament House tonight for the launch of The Green Report: ICN Past Present and Future, and to celebrate over $53 billion dollars in contracts won by SMEs following introductions brokered by Industry Capability Network (ICN).
ICN is commemorating its anniversary marking 40 years of specialist services for major projects and SMEs. ICN has contributed significantly to strengthen industry including the manufacturing sector in Australia, by helping SMEs build capability, diversify and find new contract opportunities.
ICN will launch The Green Report by Dr Phillip Toner and Emeritus Professor Roy Green, which outlines a plan to strengthen supply chain opportunities for Australian SMEs. The Hon Ed HusicMP, Minister for Industry and Science, will give his perspectives with a keynote address at the event.
‘Australian SMEs are now operating in a rapidly changing global market and it’s important that they receive the support they need to build capability and thrive in this new environment,’ said ICNNational Office CEO Warren Jansen.
‘The Green Report identifies many challenges confronting SMEs in securing successful contracts. It outlines how addressing these barriers will build a stronger manufacturing sector, bolster the government’s policy initiatives associated with a Future Made in Australia and reduce Australia’sreliance on foreign supply chains.’
While ICN has always helped Australian SMEs in practical ways that make a real difference, Warren said he looks forward to ICN’s evolving suite of products and services continuing to optimise SME growth and contract success.
‘The findings from The Green Report will help inform the next phase for ICN so that we can best support SMEs in new areas like the Net Zero transition,’ Warren said.
‘In particular, ICN looks forward to supporting the government’s plan to renew sovereign industrial capability through its Future Made in Australia agenda and the new Community Benefit Principles.’
‘There is significant investment from the government to strengthen the Australian manufacturing sector and we look forward to ICN being an integral delivery partner for government and supporting Australian SMEs for another 40 years.’
To view a copy of The Green Report: ICN Past Present and Future go to:https://icn.org.au/publications/icn-at-40-past-present-and-future/