Earlier this month, Programmed team members joined First Nations businesses, corporate members and government representatives from across Australia at Supply Nation Connect 2026 in Perth. Across two days, the event brought people together to share ideas, learn from one another and build stronger supplier connections.
Day one was about learning. The Knowledge Forum explored procurement and cultural considerations, with First Nations business leaders sharing perspectives on what strong, respectful supplier relationships can look like.
Day two shifted to the tradeshow, and the scale and diversity of businesses represented made an impression. Our team caught up with existing suppliers and partners, met new First Nations businesses and started conversations about where we could work together in the future.
The event wrapped up with the Supplier Diversity Awards & Gala Dinner. Alongside a Welcome to Country and performances, guests heard from Supply Nation CEO Kate Russell and Western Australian Premier Roger Cook before the awards celebrated organisations and partnerships creating opportunities for Indigenous businesses.
Celebrating supplier diversity
A highlight for Programmed was seeing one of our suppliers, Kardan, recognised with the Supplier Diversity Partnership of the Year Award alongside the WA Department of Housing and Works. Their recognition was a great moment to celebrate a supplier relationship that continues to grow.
“Connect 2026 was a great opportunity to catch up with suppliers we already work with, meet new First Nations businesses and hear different perspectives on supplier diversity. We came away with new ideas, new connections and plenty to build on. --Benjamin Blythe, Procurement ESG & Analytics Lead
For Programmed, this year's event was a chance to see how far our supplier relationships have come and where there is still room to grow. We look forward to building on the conversations from Perth and continuing to create practical opportunities with First Nations suppliers.
To learn more about Supply Nation and its work supporting Indigenous businesses and supplier diversity, visit supplynation.org.au
