“We welcomed the Federal Government’s decision last year to source 20 percent of its annual procurement from small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Now, we want to see them walk the walk. The government must consider a move to a media roster, rather than a single agency model, to ensure Australian-owned businesses have a seat at the table,” said Buchanan. 

“As an organisation, we understand that no one deserves a free kick, but we have so much talent in the independent media sector ready to go. In 2023, we saw the indies taking out major accounts across the country—a clear indication of the indie sector’s dominance in Australia. This should be reflected in the outcome of the tender process,” he continued. 

“With the election coming up, the IMAA recently had a positive conversation with Katie Gallagher’s office and also met with Michelle Rowland, Minister for Communications. The Federal Government clearly wants to support Australian-owned businesses and we hope that we see that play out in the tender process for the Master Media Account,” said Buchanan. 

After B&T broke the story of UM’s win six years ago, then-CEO Fiona Johnson said it was a “humbling task”. 

“We are in a world that needs our careful counsel and balance between human intelligence and automated capability. Working with the Australian government is not only an opportunity but also a responsibility,” she added. 

“I am immensely proud of my whole team for the passion, work and professionalism they have put into proving that for government we are as great as before – and better than ever. 

“In our relentless pursuit to be better, and to help lead an ever-changing world of communications, this is a very important moment for us.” 

A spokesperson for UM declined to comment on this new tender. 

 Ends