Department of Finance

Supplier’s ABN was new

What it measures

The supplier’s ABN had been active for less than three months when the contract started or was published.

When it applies

An ABN active for fewer than 90 days before the earlier of the contract’s start and publication dates, for contracts worth $100,000 or more. The Australian Business Register gives only the date an ABN’s current status began, so an ABN that became active after the contract started is not counted. Government bodies and suppliers who are individuals are not counted.

Why it matters

When assessing value for money, the Commonwealth Procurement Rules ask agencies to consider each supplier’s performance history and the relative risk of each proposal. A business with a short record has less history to assess.

Common explanations

A joint venture, partnership or trust set up for one project or lease. A new company formed when an established business restructured or was sold. An Australian subsidiary set up by an established overseas supplier. An ABN cancelled and later reactivated, which the register shows as a new start date.

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Contracts

Contracts published in 2025-26 and 2026-27 to date, largest amount first. Contracts with suppliers who are individuals are counted in the totals but not listed (why).