Supplier Diversity in Australia

Certifying bodies in Australia

Each body certifies a different ownership category and runs its own application, documentation review, and site assessment. Start with the one that matches your ownership.

How certification works

The shape is the same across certifying bodies: prove at least 51% ownership by the diverse group with corporate documents, financials, and owner identification; complete the review, which for most bodies also tests management and control and may include a site assessment. Supply Nation and WEConnect fee structures vary by business size and membership tier; check each organization's current schedule before applying.

Government procurement

The Australian Government's Indigenous Procurement Policy sets purchasing targets for Commonwealth contracts with Indigenous businesses, and mandates Supply Nation's Indigenous Business Direct directory as the first reference point for procurement officers filling those targets.

Selling into US and global corporate supply chains

Supply Nation's corporate membership includes global companies buying in Australia, so certification reaches multinational as well as domestic buyers. Women-owned Australian firms can add WEConnect International certification to reach member buyers across markets.

Frequently asked questions

What counts as an Indigenous business for Supply Nation?

Certified businesses are for-profit, located in Australia, and verified as at least 51% Indigenous owned, managed, and controlled. Supply Nation also registers businesses at 50% or more Indigenous ownership in its directory; certification is the stricter, verified tier.

What is the Indigenous Procurement Policy?

A Commonwealth policy that sets targets for the share of federal contracts going to Indigenous businesses and requires procurement officers to check Indigenous Business Direct first when sourcing. It is the main government driver of Indigenous business demand in Australia.

Is there an Australian certification for women-owned businesses?

WEConnect International certifies Australian women-owned businesses (51% owned, managed, and controlled by women) for corporate supplier diversity programs; it partners locally with Supply Nation and Social Traders on inclusive procurement.