The Local Buying Program is increasingly becoming an important procurement tool for BHP Buyers when identifying potential Traditional Owner and Indigenous suppliers.

During recent refurbishments of two accommodation villages, BHP Olympic Dam Engineering and NPI required a large number of mattresses and bed bases to be replaced.  This included the supply of 2,403 king single mattresses and bases and 80 double mattresses and bases; including labour and disposal of old items.

Using the LBP Request for Quote function, the scope was sent to multiple Traditional Owner and Indigenous businesses for quoting.  Kokatha submitted the successful quote and were approved to undertake the work. The engagement has created several benefits to site as well as Kokatha – particularly the opportunity presented to BHP to support a local Traditional Owner business, and the opportunity for Kokatha to continue building a strong business relationship with BHP.

Site’s commitment to engaging and supporting a growing Indigenous business has produced great outcomes for some Kokatha employees as they are gaining skills that are transferable to the mining environment in the future.  Improving the skills base within the business will only serve as an asset in the future as the business continues to grow it’s capabilities and capacity.