Australia's Development Program offers opportunities for business to contribute to an open, prosperous and resilient Indo-Pacific.

Health security, stability and economic recovery in our immediate region – the Pacific and Southeast Asia – are key pillars in the development program. As outlined in Partnerships for Recovery — Australia's COVID-19 Development Response, a key focus is supporting the most vulnerable, including women and girls and people with a disability, to enhance safety and well-being.

Partnerships with the private sector can maximise the impact of Australian Government investments and assist with achieving development objectives. DFAT values private sector technical capabilities and market insights and, in return, can offer businesses expertise, influence and expanded networks.

In 2020-21, Australia's Official Development Assistance budget is over $4 billion, with a focus on the three key pillars and supporting vaccine access initiatives.

DFAT is seeking to partner with organisations that value diversity and inclusiveness, that can bring innovative solutions to problems, and can work with the wide range of stakeholders in the development program. The program is helping to shape our region, and we want to support development which reflects our core values - the rule of law, freedom of thought and expression, valuing the role of women, accountable governments, and a rules-based international order.

Businesses interested in the development sector are encouraged to consider DFAT's procurement and grant opportunities. Contracting opportunities are advertised on AusTender, the government's procurement system. Sub-contracting opportunities are listed on DFAT's AusConnect portal . Grant opportunities and related information can be found on GrantsConnect, the Australian Government's grants system and DFAT's grants page.

Businesses can also broaden their development networks through DFAT's Suppliers Network on LinkedIn; DFAT Business Opportunities webpage; International Development Contractor's Community (IDCC) and Australian Council For International Development (ACFID).

Enquiries about working with Australia's development program can be sent to supplier.engagement@dfat.gov.au