Procurement is quite often considered a complex process. While it certainly can be intimidating to review those lengthy RFT (Request For Tender) questions, the process is a lot simpler once you’re in the know of best practice guidelines. Here are some common tendering FAQs we’ve pulled together to help you with your bid/no-bid decision, RFT response, or project timeline.
Why Are Contracts Tendered?
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Value for money
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Past performance and capability
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Experience in similar contracts
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Proposed methodologies
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Compliance with safety, ethical, and environmental standards
Public sector procurement in Australia is governed by strict guidelines to ensure integrity, value, and accountability.
How Are Tenders Advertised in Australia?
Government Tenders
Within every State and Territory in Australia, government tenders are generally advertised and submitted through an online portal. Examples include:
Signing up for these portals also allows you to receive alerts for suitable tenders according to your preferences. Each State has specific mandated procurement guidelines for going out to tender, and they are governed and audited to ensure they follow these guidelines.
Private Sector Tenders
Private tenders can be advertised through:
- Company websites
- Industry portals
- Newspapers
- Social media
- Direct invitations
There is no legal requirement for private tenders to be publicised, and all mandated procurement guidelines are only specific to that company. Private sector Buyer’s have the option to advertise to the public or send invitations to specified suppliers.
You can join platforms that advertise both Private Sector and Government tenders! For example, on Australian Tenders, you can be notified through a single email of all the opportunities from local, state, federal, and private industries. Get your sample tender alert here.
How are tenders evaluated?
- Price and value for money
- Demonstrated experience or past performance
- Quality and quantity of goods or services
- Fit-for-purpose solution
- Environmental sustainability
- Ability to meet the contract’s mandatory requirements
What are Contract Departures?
What is an Alternative Offer?
What is the difference between a cover letter and an executive summary?
Cover Letter
Executive Summary
- Your reputation and experience with past projects
- The size of your team and the relevant experience of key personnel
- Your network of partners and subcontractors
- Relevant certifications and memberships
- Evidence of how your solution connects with procurement needs
- Cost-benefit of value-add services
- Your compliance with the contract requirements
- Innovative solutions
- Your company’s sustainability goals and how they align with contract specifications
How Do I Respond to Tender Clarification Requests?
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Read the question carefully
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Answer precisely and clearly
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Avoid repeating your full response unless needed
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Consult with team members or stakeholders if clarification is needed
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Keep your response concise and accurate
Can I Request an Extension on the Tender Closing Date?
Request an extension early, not a day before the deadline. If you need more time to gather pricing, technical documents, or internal approvals, email the buyer with:
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Your reason for the request
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How it impacts your ability to respond effectively
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A proposed new deadline
If multiple suppliers raise the same concern, Buyers are often open to extensions.
Helpful Resources
Final Thoughts
Tendering isn’t as complicated as you may think. There are many workarounds to most of your concerns as a Supplier. Staying proactive and doing your pre-bid homework can provide the answers you need to submit a winning response. Use your research and analysis skills to look for the correct information before you jump into the procurement process. A little preparation goes a long way!