The Victorian Government has announced plans to overhaul the way in which the state procures information and communication technology services through the introduction of a ‘streamlined and transparent process’ that will give companies more opportunities to bid for tenders.

 

State Assistant Treasurer Gordon Rich-Phillips said the overhaul will see the current eSerivces Panel replaced with an eServices Register.

 

The reform to the tender process was the key recommendation of a joint industry and government working party that was appointed last year to review ICT procurement.

 

"We have accepted the preferred option of the working party report and will consult with industry over the next few months on how this recommendation can best be implemented," Mr Rich-Phillips said.

 

"The Coalition Government will consider the report's full recommendations and work with industry to transition from the current panel arrangement to a proposed register.

 

"Current suppliers will be automatically eligible to join the new eServices Register when it is implemented over the next year.

 

The report found that a transition to an eServices Register would allow for a more fair and efficient process of bidding for tenders. The register will be mandated for use by government departments and agencies with membership open to all companies that meet eligible criteria.

 

"The register will provide for further competition, increase value for money and allow the government to consider new and innovative technology and services," Mr Rich-Phillips said.