The IMAA has welcomed with cautious optimism the tender for the Western Australian Government’s master media account, with a new clause requiring agencies to demonstrate how their work would directly benefit the local economy. The much-anticipated tender for the Western Australian Government media account, estimated to be worth $60 million annually, was released last month as part of a broader overhaul of the government’s media buying model. IMAA CEO, Sam Buchanan said the new inclusion was good news for the local independent media agency sector, which has long been a significant contributor to local jobs and the Western Australian small business sector, but more should be done. “We are still optimistic that the changes to the tender will provide a greater seat at the table for the local independent media agency sector, and we will continue to consult the WA Government. We’ve been calling for a more extensive, multi-agency panel approach for media strategy and trading, to provide greater choice and equality for government departments and agencies, and to ensure Australian-owned independent media agencies are recognised.