Council's procurement panels combine as one

5 February 2021

Bega Valley Shire Council has launched a new, consolidated ‘super’ procurement panel to cover all categories of civil and trade works and services, making it easier for suppliers to bid for Council work.

Council’s Procurement and Contracts Co-ordinator, Tim Cook said the new Works and Services Panel replaces three former panels – Trade Services, Sewerage and short-term bushfire recovery Civil Works – which had duplicated categories.

“Our three former panels were due for a much-needed review. We’ve taken the opportunity to simplify how we work with suppliers and improve transparency and fairness by consolidating the panels into one,” Mr Cook said.

“There’s now one set of categories and a streamlined process to make it easier for suppliers to apply for the panel and bid for Council work.”

Mr Cook said although existing members of the Trade Services, Sewerage and Civil Works panels needed to reapply, the benefits would be worthwhile.

“Under the new arrangements, suppliers will be able to join the Works and Services Panel at any time over the initial three-year term provided they meet Council’s requirements, including quality of work and competitive rates,” he said.

“CPI-based increases (based on Australian Bureau of Statistics modelling) will be applied to the schedule of rates each year rather than fixed for the whole three years. Two (2) x one (1) year extension options will also be offered for the first time.

“We’re excited about making these improvements because we know our panels can be more effective. We’ve learnt lessons along the way, taking on board supplier feedback and setting out to do things better.”

Mr Cook said reapplying was also a necessary step for Council to ensure insurances and qualifications are up to date, as things may have changed since companies were last reviewed.

The new Works and Services Panel is open for submissions. Any business not already on VendorPanel and wishing to be accepted on the new panel will need to register with VendorPanel before applying.

A pre-tender meeting will be held at the Bega Valley Commemorative Civic Centre on Wednesday 24 February 2021 at 3pm and again at 5:30pm to provide more information about the new panel.

The meeting will be a COVID Safe event and there is no requirement to pre-register attendance. Further details about the meeting can be found in the Tender Documents on VendorPanel.

Council also plans to hold virtual pre-tender sessions and details will be made available shortly.