The Local Jobs First policy is continuing to provide ongoing opportunities for Victorian SMEs in government procurement.

In an exciting move, the National Gallery of Victoria’s (NGV) new contemporary gallery will be designed and built by an all-Australian team.

This will take the shape of a design competition to determine the architectural team for this one-of-a-kind project.

Boasting an impressive 30,000 square metres, it will be the largest facility of its kind in Australia and will showcase contemporary art, design, fashion and architecture of local, national and international significance.

The government has allocated $1.4 billion to fund this one-of-a-kind project which is set to be Australia’s largest cultural infrastructure project.

The larger gallery spaces will accommodate a variety of the NGV’s exhibition program including Triennial, the architecture commission, large-scale contemporary and art commissions, fashion exhibitions, and major exhibitions of the world’s top artists and designers.

The Local Jobs First Commissioner and Office welcome the decision of Development Victoria to focus on Victoria and Australia’s architectural talent to deliver this exciting project.

The Commissioner has advocated continuously for the engagement of local architects on major projects of cultural significance to Melbourne.

Local Jobs First Commissioner, Don Matthews said: “We are here to advocate and support Victorian SMEs across industry. We have advocated strongly for the use of local talent and capability and the NGV project is a wonderful example of recognising the talent we have in our local architectural design businesses. We will continue to advocate on behalf of industry whilst creating ongoing opportunities in government procurement.”

The Local Jobs First Act 2003 and policies are there to assist in the investment and support of the local industry across the state.

The Local Jobs First Commissioner and Office will continue its ongoing advocacy work and support the delivery of the Local Jobs First policy across industry.

We all have a part to play in the support of local industry, by making use of the great products and services offered by Victorian SMEs where possible whilst building the capabilities of local architects.

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