As part of the National Innovation and Science Agenda (NISA), Australia’s new Digital Marketplace has just extended its range to strengthen working links between the tech industries and government.

The new areas of digital expertise include data science, cyber security, content and publishing, marketing, communications and engagement, as well as support and operations.

Set up by the Digital Transformation Office (DTA), the Digital Marketplace allows Government buyers to publish briefs for the work they need done, while suppliers can respond to those briefs.

DTA interim chief executive officer Nerida O’Loughlin said the latest roll-out would make it simpler for government agencies to find digital services and easier for providers to work with government.

“For our local, state and federal government buyers this means a greater range of expertise is available from companies big and small to deliver a broad range of ICT and digital needs,” Ms O’Loughlin said.

Ms O’Loughlin said an important feature of the marketplace was its ability to cater to small to medium enterprises.

“The marketplace levels the playing field for sellers who may not previously have worked with government, and, through increased competition, helps government buyers get greater value for money.”

Ms O’Loughlin said another new feature was an option for government buyers to search for services that supported their diversity procurement targets.

“Sellers can badge themselves as a business type including a startup, small-to-medium enterprise, and Indigenous-owned or disability enterprise, which helps government buyers support the growth of a range of different businesses,” Ms O’Loughlin said.

It is expected the expansion of the marketplace will lead to a doubling of the number of registered sellers in the coming weeks.