The Capricornia Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the Queensland Government’s announcement of the most significant overhaul of procurement rules in decades—reforms set to reshape how $35 billion in annual government spending flows through the state’s economy.

Under the new Queensland Procurement Policy 2026, small, family-run and regional businesses will be placed firmly at the centre of government purchasing. With a dedicated 30% SME participation target, the policy aims to direct more work toward Queensland-owned businesses, helping strengthen regional jobs and supply chains.

For Central Queensland operators—from Rockhampton to the Capricorn Coast—this represents a major shift in opportunity. Local contractors, suppliers and service providers have long called for a procurement system that reflects regional realities and rewards capability over bureaucracy. These reforms appear to answer that call.

Key measures in the new policy include:

• A 30% small and medium enterprise target for government contracts
• A national-first focus on increasing spend with veteran-owned and veteran-supporting businesses
• Increased opportunities for female-led businesses and those supporting people with disability
• A continued commitment to Indigenous business growth with at least 3% of annual procurement spend
• A new public portal that will publish procurement data to improve transparency
• The permanent removal of Best Practice Industry Conditions (BPIC), reducing administrative burden and creating a clearer, more consistent playing field for regional business

Industry groups across the state have expressed strong support. Business Chamber Queensland highlighted the simplified rules and reduced red tape as overdue improvements that will help SMEs compete more effectively. The Gallipoli Medical Research Institute praised the national-leading recognition of veteran-owned businesses, while the Queensland Major Contractors Association welcomed the productivity benefits expected from the removal of BPIC.

For Central Queensland, where small and family businesses form the backbone of the local economy, this shift is expected to open more doors to government work—helping keep economic value within the region and supporting ongoing job creation.

The Capricornia Chamber of Commerce will continue monitoring the rollout of the policy and will keep members informed of new opportunities as they emerge.