At the Printing Industries’ CEO Forum held in Leichardt yesterday, Tebbutt said, “The printing industry is important in NSW in terms of jobs and services. I know it’s a tough time but we are starting to see those green shoots of recovery, which may not have shown through yet in this industry but they will.”

Philip Andersen, CEO of Printing Industries asked Tebbutt her views on the apparent perception within the government that holds printing as an unsustainable industry.

The deputy premier responded saying, “It is not the view of the government that the printing industry is unsustainable, government agencies are large users of print however we do use electronic media, it’s fair to say we are trying to do more with less.”

Tebbutt continues, “Our agencies won’t be printing just for the sake of it and I have to support that, but that doesn’t mean we don’t see a role for the printing industry. We still very much rely on printed material to get our message out there.”

On this note the deputy premier was also asked what the government’s print procurement plans were in the future and whether it would resemble the federal programme. She was unable to give a definitive answer on this issue but said she would respond to Printing Industries.

Philip Andersen told Australian Printer the Association would follow up with the deputy premier on this issue to ensure the best outcome for printers.

Andersen said, “We will find out what the government is planning, it is our understanding that there are discussions in the NSW government to modify its print procurement programme.

“We want to be in there talking with them to ensure they don’t introduce a model just to cut costs, which could make it more difficult for printers.”

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