ICT Services [1]
Scheme overview
Scheme managed by
Digital.NSW
About the scheme
General information
The ICT Services Scheme is a whole-of-government prequalification scheme for procuring ICT goods and services.
In drafting the scheme, the Department of Customer Service underwent extensive consultation with industry and NSW Government agencies.
Under NSW Procurement Board Direction 2019-04 [2], NSW Government agencies must use the ICT Services Scheme, unless other whole-of-government arrangements apply.
The ICT Services Scheme aligns with the NSW Government Digital Strategy [3], which provides a comprehensive approach to identifying, sourcing and procuring ICT goods and services to ensure government harnesses new, innovative and effective approaches.
ICT contracting framework: Procure IT
NSW Government agencies must use the Procure IT Framework [4] to buy ICT related goods and services. This is mandated by Procurement Board Direction 2018-02 [5].
The Procure IT Framework comprises:
- Core& agreement (Low Risk) [6] for all low risk ICT procurement up to the value of $500,000 (excluding GST)
- Procure IT v3.2 [7] for all ICT procurement over $500,000 (excluding GST) and all high risk ICT procurement (regardless of value)
Regardless of the values allocated to each contract above, registered suppliers can only use Core& agreement (Low Risk) up to $150,000 (excluding GST).
Advanced Registered Suppliers can use Core& agreement (Low Risk) from $150,000 (excluding GST) up to $500,000 (excluding GST) and Procure IT v3.2 for high risk/high value contracts.
If you have any question in relation to Procure IT v3.2 or Core& agreement (Low Risk) or you want to provide feedback, please email ICTServices@customerservice.nsw.gov.au [8]
How buy.nsw relates to the ICT Services Scheme
buy.nsw [9] is a new platform that's simplifying procurement in NSW, starting with cloud services.
As part of introducing the platform, we are making changes to the ICT Services Scheme starting with consolidating 10 cloud-related ICT Services Scheme categories into one. The following categories have been consolidated into cloud products, services and support on buy.nsw:
- C03PTa GovDC Software as a Service
- C04PTa GovDC Platform as a Service
- C04PTs Platform as a Service
- C05PTa GovDC Infrastructure as a Service
- C05PTs Infrastructure as a Service
- C06PTa Migration services and cloud readiness
- C06PTs Migration services and cloud readiness
- C08PTs GovDC Cloud connect broker
- Q03PTa GovDC Software as a Service
- Q04PTa GovDC Platform as a Service (List the 10 categories)
All sellers of cloud products and services currently on the ICT Service Scheme are prequalified to join buy.nsw. However, they still need to apply to accept the buy.nsw terms and share additional information.
Businesses who are not on the ICT Services Scheme, and who offer cloud products and services, can also apply to join buy.nsw [10].
All sellers approved to join buy.nsw are part of the ICT Services Scheme.
Range of products/services
Key benefits
Benefits for suppliers
The benefits for suppliers are:
- The ICT Services Scheme simplifies the procurement process by removing the lengthy tender process and replacing it with an online application [13].
- All ICT suppliers are eligible to apply for prequalification to the ICT Services Scheme subject to satisfaction of the requirements.
- The “always open” policy allows new suppliers to register for the ICT Services Scheme at any time, increasing accessibility and competition in ICT procurement for NSW Government
- Streamlined categories of ICT services [11] align with the NSW Government Digital Strategy [14], making it clear what the ICT needs of government are and how the supplier can meet them. The supplier is not restricted in the number of categories that they can apply for.
- Ability to be included on the Registered Supplier List, the Advanced Registered Supplier List or both of these lists, depending on the supplier’s capacity and capability.
Benefits for buyers
The benefits for buyers are:
- The streamlined categories of ICT services align with the current NSW Government Digital Strategy [14] and ensures that prequalified suppliers meet the government’s requirements.
- The ICT Services Scheme drives competition, providing agencies and buyers with greater choice and access to new suppliers and emerging technologies. This is because the ICT Services Scheme is open to new suppliers on an ongoing basis.
- Risk assessment guidelines to help agencies select appropriate suppliers for their individual requirements.
- Ability to drive value from the ICT Services Scheme by assessing price and non-price factors for each engagement.
- Online eQuote [15] tool to conduct competitive requests for quotation.
Information for buyers
How to buy from this scheme
eQuote
You may use eQuote [15] to request quotes from prequalified suppliers.
buy.nsw
buy.nsw is a new platform that is simplifying procurement in NSW. Currently, you can only buy cloud products and services through buy.nsw. To buy through buy.nsw simply:
- register as a buyer [16]
- browse the buy.nsw seller hub for suitable cloud products and services
- click the 'buy' button on the product page
Once you click 'buy' you will be contacted by a buy.nsw team member to help you in creating the contract.
Requirements for buyers
Eligible buyers must place orders with suppliers using the specified order forms found in the tools, templates and resources section.
Prequalified suppliers/participants/members
Tools, templates and resources
The ICT Services Scheme has several tools and resources available to all eligible buyers. This includes:
- ICT Services Scheme handbook for buyers [19] (PPTX, 11 MB) that helps eligible buyers and includes a risk assessment tool
- Procure IT Framework [4] which is the mandatory contractual framework for all Registered and Advanced Registered Suppliers
- eQuote training [20]
- Risk Assessment Toolkit [21] (DOCX, 323KB) that helps eligible buyers navigate risk
FAQs for buyers
FAQs - General information for buyers
1. Who is a buyer under the ICT Services Scheme?
Under the ICT Services Scheme, buyers are NSW government agencies and eligible non-government bodies (such as universities or NGOs). As per NSW Procurement Board Direction 2019-04 [2], NSW Government agencies must use this scheme.
2. What policies are there that I must abide by?
The NSW Procurement Board can issue policies and directions relating to the ICT Services Scheme. These are only mandatory for NSW Government agencies. Some of the policies that buyers must adhere to include:
- Procurement Board Direction 2019-04 [2]
- Accessibility Standard EN 301 549
- Small and Medium Participation Plan [22]
- Procurement Board Direction 2018-02: [23] mandates the use of the Procure IT framework and replaces the Short Form ICT Contract with the new Core& Agreement (Low Risk)
- NSW Government Procurement Policy Framework [24]
- Aboriginal Procurement Policy [25]
3. Where can I find information and resources about the ICT Services Scheme?
Resources available online include:
- Scheme categories and descriptions [11]
- Handbook for buyers [19] (PPTX, 11 MB), including risk assessment guidelines
- ICT Service Scheme rules for suppliers [26] (DOCX, 63.88 KB)
- list of prequalified suppliers [17] (XLSX, 1.8 MB)
4. Where can I find the contracts and documents needed to buy from the scheme?
The contracts and other documents you and your prospective suppliers need to undergo procurement for ICT goods and services under the ICT Services Scheme are:
5. How do I find out which suppliers are on the ICT Services Scheme?
View the list of prequalified suppliers [17] (XLSX, 1.8 MB).
6. What are the requirements to select suppliers on the ICT Services Scheme?
Unless otherwise specified, the ICT Services Scheme adopts the use of Procurement Board Direction 2019-04 [2] for their procurement arrangements. When undertaking ICT procurement under the ICT Services Scheme, agencies must follow the provisions in that direction. This does not affect any other mandated procurement policies including for instance, conducting a risk assessment, internal approval processes, agency delegations manual etc.
7. How do I choose between suppliers on the ICT Services Scheme?
The selection of suppliers will depend on the value of the contract. The recommended way is to conduct a Request for Quotation (RFQ) using the eQuote [15] system.
8. Does my agency have to use the ICT Services Scheme?
Yes. According to NSW Procurement Board Direction 2019-04 [2] government agencies (within the meaning of the Public Works and Procurement Act 1912) must use whole-of-government contracts for obtaining the goods or services where a contract applies. The ICT Services Scheme is a whole-of-government arrangement that is used for procurement of ICT solutions.
9. What if the supplier I want to use is not on the ICT Services Scheme?
To ensure you can comply with the NSW Procurement Board Direction 2019-04 [2], you should encourage the supplier(s) to apply to the ICT Services Scheme online at eTendering [27]. Information for suppliers on how to register is available on the supply2gov [28] page.
10. How do I conduct request for quotes (RFQs) under the scheme?
Buyers can conduct RFQs using eQuote [15], through which agencies can issue RFQs to registered suppliers. Using eQuote, you can issue, manage and award RFQs online from suppliers registered on prequalification schemes and panel arrangements.
You can organise access to eQuote by contacting your agency’s eTendering administrator or by contacting the NSW Procurement Service Centre [29].
11. How are suppliers accepted on the scheme?
Different criteria applies to suppliers depending on whether they have applied for the Registered Supplier List or for the Advanced Registered Supplier List. Details of the supplier acceptance criteria for both supplier listings are provided in the handbook for buyers [19] (PPTX, 11 MB).
12. Can a supplier be on both the Registered Supplier List and the Advanced Registered Supplier list?
Yes. Suppliers can apply for either or both supplier listings.
13. How do I know if my ICT service requirements are “high risk”?
A risk assessment tool is available in the Risk Assessment Toolkit [21] (DOC, 323KB). You can also consult with your internal procurement team.
14. What terms and conditions have suppliers agreed to in order to be an approved supplier on the scheme?
All suppliers have agreed to a set of ICT Services Scheme rules [26] (PDF, 317 KB).
15. Does Procure IT Part 1: Head Agreement apply to engagements with Advanced Registered Suppliers?
No. Part 1: Head Agreement of Procure IT v3.2 [7] is not applicable to the ICT Services Scheme because the scheme is not a panel arrangement. To enter into a customer contract, Advanced Registered Suppliers and customers are required to execute Part 2: Customer Contract of Procure IT v3.2, the General Order Form and any applicable schedules and Modules.
16. Do I need to fill in Item 7 of Procure IT v3.2 General Order Form?
No. Item 7 of the General Order Form should be left blank because it only applies to panel arrangements with a head agreement. Item 11 of the General Order Form has been revised to allow you to specify that the customer contract (the order) is placed under the ICT Services Scheme.
17. If I intend to place multiple orders with a supplier on the Advanced Registered Supplier List, does Procure IT v3.2 Part 2: Customer Contract need to be executed for each order, even if the multiple orders are with the same supplier?
No. For multiple orders with the same supplier, execute Part 2: Customer Contract once. However, it is important that both parties execute a separate General Order Form and applicable schedules and Modules for each and every order, regardless of whether it is with the same supplier.
Hardware
18. What are the arrangements for acquiring hardware?
In accordance with NSW Procurement Board Direction 2019-04 [2] the use of Contract 999 ICT End User Devices and Services [30] and Contract 2390 Imaging Devices [31] are mandatory for NSW government agencies obtaining the goods or services to which those contracts apply. Devices that are available through these separate procurement arrangements are excluded from the ICT Services Scheme.
19. What is the GSS and why is it excluded from supply through the scheme?
The GSS is the Government Standard Specification. It describes a range of standard office type End User Devices and Services of the type purchased in high volumes by NSW Government. A list of End User Devices and Services can be found in Contract 999 ICT End User Devices and Services [30]. The models and prices for the GSS have been negotiated with the suppliers on Contract 999 ICT End User Devices and Services. NSW Government agencies must use that whole-of-government Contract 999 ICT End User Devices and Services when procuring specified End User Devices and Services as per NSW Procurement Board Direction 2019-04 [2].
For more information please contact the NSW Procurement Service Centre [29].
20. Is disposal of hardware included in the scope of the scheme?
Disposal of hardware is not within the scope of the ICT Services Scheme. Disposal of hardware and other End User Services (such as asset tagging, pre-delivery configuration, pre-delivery imaging, basic installation, extended installation, sanitisation services and decommission services) are available through Contract 999 ICT End User Devices and Services [30].
21. Is there any crossover or duplication between the ICT Services Scheme and Contract 2390 Imaging Devices?
No. All imaging devices must be purchased through Contract 2390 Imaging Devices [31] unless provided “as a service” and owned by the service provider. The whole-of-government Contract 2390 Imaging Devices is mandatory for short term rentals and purchase of hardware devices including MFD, as is consistent with NSW Procurement Board Direction 2019-04 [2].
Software
22. What software cannot be purchased through the ICT Services Scheme?
Software available through whole-of-government contracts such as software agreements 607 [32], 2601 [33], 2318 [34], 1217 [35] and 662 [36] must be acquired by those agreements. Buyers can not use the ICT Services Scheme.
23. Am I allowed to procure software from an authorised reseller or distributor of software licences?
Yes. Licensed software, subscription and support services from authorised resellers and distributors are covered by Category M09: Software Resellers and Software Asset Management Services.
24. How is the supply of software under Category N different to supplying software under the other categories?
Category N is for the acquisition of perpetual software licences and related support. Software as a service and other ICT and software-related services are covered by other categories.
FAQs - Telecommunications for buyers
Please visit Telecommunication Services page [37] to find out more about telecommunication procurement arrangements, approval processes for new telecommunication services and resources available for buying telecommunication services.
Information for suppliers / participants
How to apply
New suppliers can apply for inclusion on the ICT Services Scheme at any time. The suggested steps are:
- Read the application process overview [38]
- View the ICT service categories and descriptions [11]
- Register on the eTendering site [39] (only required if not already registered)
- Apply now [40] for the scheme
If you sell cloud products and services, you can only apply for the ICT Services Scheme by applying to join buy.nsw [41].
For further information please see the FAQs for Suppliers-Applications section below.
Guidelines and conditions
All prequalified suppliers need to comply with the ICT Services Scheme rules [26] (PDF, 317 KB).
Tools, templates and resources
The ICT Services Scheme has a range of tools and resources that suppliers can use, including the:
- Usage data collection template [42](XLSX, 21.49 KB)
- Online application quick reference guide [43] (PDF, 246.35 KB)
- Procure IT framework [44] (the mandatory ICT contracting framework for all Registered and Advanced Registered Suppliers)
- Associated entities application template [45] (DOCX, 19.37 KB)
- Capacity and capability application template [46] (DOCX, 25.63 KB)
- Relative experience application template [47] (DOCX, 17.14 KB)
- Referee report application template [48] (DOCX, 27.92 KB)
FAQs for suppliers
FAQs - General information
1.Where can I find information and resources about the ICT Services Scheme?
Online resources are available on ProcurePoint, including the:
- ICT Services Scheme rules [26] (PDF, 317 KB)
- application quick reference guide [43] (PDF 246 KB)
- list of registered pre-qualified suppliers [17] (XLSX, 1.8 Mb)
- ICT service categories and descriptions [11]
- Core& Agreement (Low Risk) [6] (for contracts with the Registered Supplier List)
- Procure IT v3.2 [7] (for contracts with the Advanced Registered Supplier List)
- Application templates for the ICT Services Scheme (as above in Tools, templates and resources section)
2.What is the duration of the ICT Services Scheme?
The ICT Services Scheme is ongoing and periodically reviewed as necessitated by changing business needs.
3.Is the number of suppliers restricted on the ICT Services Scheme?
No. The scheme does not restrict the number of approved suppliers.
4.How do I find out which suppliers are on the ICT Services Scheme?
Download the list of registered pre-qualified suppliers [17] (XLSX, 1.8 Mb)
5.Why does the ICT Services Scheme have two supplier categories?
The ICT Services Scheme has a Registered Supplier List for low risk procurements valued up to $150,000 (excluding GST) to assist in providing opportunities for smaller enterprises. The Registered Supplier List has lower acceptance requirements for inclusion onto the ICT Services Scheme and suppliers on this list may enter into contracts using simplified terms and conditions with lower insurances, to reduce the cost of doing business with government. The Advanced Registered Suppliers List has a higher level of acceptance requirements given suppliers on this list can be engaged in high risk procurements above $150,000 (excluding GST).
6.What contract should I use?
Under NSW Procurement Board Direction 2018-02 [5], agencies must use the Procure IT framework when procuring ICT goods and services. The Procure IT framework is composed of Core& Agreement (Low Risk) [6] for low-risk procurement up to $500,0000 (excluding GST) and Procure IT v3.2 [7] for high-risk procurement above $500,000 (excluding GST).
Suppliers in the Registered Supplier List must use the Core& Agreement (Low Risk) for procurements only up to $150,000 (excluding GST) that are low risk.
Advanced Registered Supplier List who are able to be engaged for procurements valued over $150,000 (excluding GST) must use either Procure IT v3.2 or Core& agreement (Low Risk) depending on the level of risk and value of the contract.
7.What is the contractual framework for the ICT Services Scheme? Is a head agreement required under Procure IT v3.2?
By lodging an application, suppliers agree to the ICT Services Scheme rules [26] (PDF, 317 KB), which prescribe the terms and conditions for each individual contract. All Registered and Advanced Registered Suppliers are required to use the Procure IT Framework when entering into contracts by using either the Core& agreement (Low Risk) or Procure IT v3.2 (see question 6 above).
There is no head agreement for non-panel arrangements under Procure IT v3.2 of the ICT Services Scheme.
8.Can approved suppliers change their nominated categories for the ICT Services Scheme?
Yes, approved suppliers can apply for changes to their categories, as well as apply for additional categories on eTendering [27]. Changes to categories are subject to the acceptance criteria outlined in the ICT Services Scheme rules [26] (PDF, 317 KB)
9.If I am an approved supplier, how do I update my contact details?
Approved suppliers can update their details at any time by logging into eTendering [27].
10.If I am an approved supplier on the Advanced Registered Supplier List and I want to sub-contract a portion of the work, do I have to source the sub-contractor from the ICT Services Scheme?
No. You can source any sub-contractors and they do not have to be approved suppliers on the ICT Services Scheme. As the primary contractor, you are responsible for the performance of your sub-contractors. Clause 5 of the Core& agreement (Low Risk) and clause 8.14 of the Customer Contract in Procure IT v3.2 set out the conditions of consent required before subcontracting work.
11.Do management fees apply to the ICT Services Scheme?
There are no management fee provisions under the ICT Services Scheme.
12.Does the Data Centre Services category (C) overlap with the Data Centre Migration Panel already established?
The Data Centre Migration Panel only covers migration into the NSW Government data centres. Category C under the ICT Services Scheme for data centre services covers normal operations and other non-migration activities.
Hardware
13.What are the arrangements for acquiring hardware?
The ICT Services Scheme is no longer limited to services and includes hardware acquisition along with other categories not previously encompassed.
- No new whole-of-government contracts are planned to be established for ICT hardware
- Contract 999 ICT End User Devices and Services [49] and Contract 2390 Imaging Devices [31] will continue to 2020
- All other categories of ICT hardware will be obtained through the ICT Services Scheme
14.What hardware cannot be purchased through the ICT Services Scheme?
Devices that are available through Contract 2390 Imaging Devices [31], and end-user devices that are covered by the Government Standard Specification Contract 999 ICT End User Devices and Services [49]. Suppliers are unable to enter into contracts for the aforementioned devices under the ICT Services Scheme.
15.What is the GSS and why is it excluded from supply through the ICT Services Scheme?
The GSS is the Government Standard Specification. It describes a range of standard office type desktops and notebooks of the type purchased in high volumes by NSW Government. A list of GSS devices can be found in the agreement for Contract 999 ICT End User Devices and Services [49].
The models and prices for the GSS have been negotiated with the Contract 999: ICT End User Devices and Services suppliers on the basis that NSW Government Agencies must use that contract to obtain those specified devices.
If you are unsure whether the equipment you are offering is covered by the GSS, please contact the NSW Procurement Service Centre [29].
16.If I was a supplier or approved party listed on Contract 2846 and wish to be registered on the scheme, what category and subcategories should I register for?
Some of the categories that suppliers should consider registering for are listed below:
- C01 Data Centre Service
- C02 Data Centre Equipment
- M09 Software Resellers and Software Asset Management Services
- N01 Infrastructure and Utilities Software
- J01 Server Installation, Configuration & Maintenance including delivery “as a service”
- J02 Operations Management including delivery “as a service”
17.Is disposal of hardware included in the scope of the ICT Services Scheme?
Disposal of hardware is not within the scope of the ICT Services Scheme.
Software
19.Is software included in the scope of the ICT Services Scheme?
Yes, under Category N.
20.I am already prequalified on the ICT Services Scheme. How can I apply for Category N – software licences?
You can apply for additional categories at any time throughout the life of the ICT Services Scheme by logging into eTendering, selecting Scheme Applications and under Successful, selecting Resubmit. Requests for changes to categories are subject to the same acceptance requirements and outlined in clause 17 of the ICT Services Scheme rules [26] (PDF, 317 KB).
21.Can approved software suppliers on whole-of-government Contracts 607 and 2601 apply for Category N under the ICT Services Scheme?
No. Software available through the whole-of-government contracts such as Contract 607 ICT Software Agreement – Oracle [32] and Contract 2601 SAP Enterprise Resource Planning Software [33] must be acquired by those agreements (not the ICT Services Scheme).
22.Can I apply to the ICT Services Scheme if I am an authorised reseller or distributor of software licences?
Yes, licenced software and subscription and support services from authorised resellers and distributors are covered by the ICT Services Scheme under Category M09: Software resellers and software asset management services.
23.How is the supply of software under Category N different to supplying software under the other categories?
Category N is for the acquisition of perpetual software licences and related support. Software as a service and other ICT and software-related services are covered by other categories.
24.If I am capable of supplying only a component of a particular software subcategory, then can I still apply?
Yes.
25.If I am an Original Equipment Manager (OEM) do I need to register on the ICT Services Scheme?
Yes, only in circumstances where you intend to take orders directly. If you conduct your business through your distribution channel then you will not have to register, provided they are registered on the ICT Services Scheme.
26.I was previously listed as an approved party or approved agent for an OEM on a panel contract. What do I need to do to supply to NSW Government agencies?
If you intend to supply directly to NSW Government and the goods and services you are supplying are now covered by the ICT Services Scheme, you need to ensure that you are registered and pre-qualified for the relevant categories on the ICT Services Scheme.
Telecommunications
Please visit Telecommunication Services page [37] to find out more about telecommunication procurement arrangements, approval processes for new telecommunication services and resources for buying telecommunication services.
FAQs - Applications
1.How do I apply for the ICT Services Scheme?
Applications can be made online at any time on the eTendering [27] website.
Refer to the application quick reference guide [43] (PDF 246 KB), which provides step-by-step instructions.
2.Is there a deadline for applications to be lodged?
No. The ICT Services Scheme is ongoing and open to supplier registrations throughout the duration of the scheme.
3.What information do I need to provide with my online application?
All application requirements and acceptance criteria are detailed in the ICT Services Scheme rules [26] (PDF, 317 KB).
As part of the application process, suppliers must download templates from eTendering [27], complete the required information, save the documents, then upload them into eTendering. The templates are available on this page.
4.What is the assessment process for applications to the ICT Services Scheme?
Applications for the Registered Supplier List and the Advanced Registered Supplier List will be assessed according to the acceptance criteria outlined in the ICT Services Scheme rules [26] (PDF, 317 KB).
Applications for the Advanced Supplier List will undergo a more rigorous assessment due to the high value and risk profile of the services. Referee reports will be validated by contacting the referees. Credit reports may be requested to be provided in order to confirm that applicants are financially solvent.
5.What are the acceptance criteria for the ICT Services Scheme?
The acceptance criteria will vary depending on whether you are applying for the Registered Supplier List or for the Advanced Registered Supplier List. Refer to the ICT Services Scheme rules [26] (PDF, 317 KB) for more details.
6.Is annual turnover an acceptance criterion?
No. It is requested for informational purposes but does not form part of the acceptance criteria for admission to the ICT Services Scheme.
7.Can I apply for both the Registered Supplier List and the Advanced Registered Supplier List?
Yes. Simply follow the instructions on the application quick reference guide [43] (PDF 246 KB).
8.Can I apply for some categories in the Advanced Registered Supplier List and some in the Registered Supplier List?
The eTendering [27] system allows suppliers to make separate applications for the Registered Supplier List and the Advanced Registered Supplier List. This will allow suppliers to nominate different categories for each supplier list.
9.Might I be approved for some (and not all) of the categories or sub-categories for which I applied?
You will only be refused acceptance for a nominated category if you do not meet the acceptance criteria for that category.
10.Once approved, can I apply for more categories?
Yes. Suppliers can apply for additional categories at any time throughout the life of the ICT Services Scheme by logging into eTendering [27], selecting Scheme Applications and under Successful, selecting Resubmit. Requests for changes to categories are subject to the same acceptance requirements, as outlined in clause 17 of the ICT Services Scheme rules [26] (PDF, 317 KB).
11.How long will it take for my application to be processed?
The typical turnaround time for a standard application is approximately one to two weeks. However, this is subject to change depending on the complexity and urgency of the application.
12.Is the pricing schedule assessed?
No. The pricing schedule provided by each supplier is used as a guide for agencies to estimate cost. The pricing schedule contains ‘ceiling prices.’ This means they are the maximum price suppliers may charge. It is anticipated that suppliers will offer reduced pricing as part of the competitive Request for Quotations process and through negotiation.
13.What are the requirements for the referee reports for Advanced Registration Supplier List? Do they have to be signed by the referee?
Registration for the Advanced Registration Supplier List requires submission of referee reports because contracts may be high risk or valued over $150,000 (excluding GST). A referee report may cover multiple categories. By providing two referee reports for a high-level category, suppliers can nominate any or all of the sub-categories. Referee reports are verified by directly contacting referees.
Please note that the referee reports:
- Do not have to be on letterhead, but must include all the required information
- Do not have to be signed by the referee
- May state the price range instead of an exact price (e.g. ‘less than $200,000’ or ‘$150,000 - $250,000’ etc)
- May be from any organisation- government or non-government
- May cover work done for, or goods provided to non-government organisations
- May be for goods or services valued less than $500,000
- May be a written reference provided for a previous tender, but the information must be substantially similar to that requested on the template
14.Can I use referees from overseas?
Referees must verify that the supplier can provide the goods or services within NSW.
15.Can companies from overseas apply for inclusion on the scheme?
Yes, if they have an Australian Business Number (ABN).
16.What are the requirements for the credit report to demonstrate solvency?
A credit report may be requested to provide evidence of financial solvency, because suppliers may supply high value or high-risk contracts. Though the Australian Business Number or the Australian Registered Body Number will be primarily used for automated solvency checks.
17.Is there a file size limit when uploading the company profile as part of the application?
There is no size limit, however it is recommended that the company profile documents be brief to enable customers to quickly review your offerings.
18.How will I know if my application has been successful?
Applicants will receive an email from the NSW Government eTendering [27] website advising them on the outcome of their application.
19.Can I reapply if my application is not successful?
Yes. All new and modified applications can be made on the eTendering [27] website. Unsuccessful applications are subject to the rules outlined in the ICT Services Scheme rules [26] (PDF, 317 KB).
FAQs - Working with customers
1.If my enterprise is accepted onto the ICT Services Scheme, is it guaranteed work?
There is no guarantee of work. The ICT Services Scheme gives suppliers the opportunity to offer goods and services to NSW Government agencies. Agencies will invite and assess supplier proposals as part of the quotation process and decide on the most appropriate supplier or suppliers depending on their individual requirements. Agencies may use their own discretion as to which suppliers are invited to submit proposals.
2.How will customers contact me?
NSW Government agencies and other eligible customers will either contact suppliers directly or can invite and assess supplier proposals using the eQuote [15] tool.
3.What is eQuote?
eQuote [15] is a tool used by NSW Government buyers to issue, manage and award requests for quotes online from suppliers registered on the ICT Services Scheme and panel arrangements.
4.Are there any guidelines on how agencies should use the ICT Services Scheme?
Yes. The Department of Customer Service has published handbook for buyers [19] (PPTX, 11 MB) outlining how to purchase from the ICT Services Scheme. Suppliers should familiarise themselves with these guidelines.
5.A NSW Government agency wants to engage me for ICT services, but I am not an approved supplier on the ICT Services Scheme. Can the agency still engage me?
NSW Procurement Board Direction 2019-04 [2] makes it mandatory for government agencies to use whole-of-government contracts and certain schemes for obtaining the goods or services to which those contracts and schemes apply. More specifically, the direction states that NSW government agencies must use the ICT Services Scheme when procuring ICT goods and services. Under the ICT Services Scheme only approved Registered or Advanced Registered Suppliers can be engaged by agencies and customers. If you wish to provide ICT services for an agency, registrations to the ICT Services Scheme are always open and applications can be made online at any time on the eTendering [27] website.
6.Does the Procure IT Part 1: Head Agreement apply to engagements under the Advanced Registered Supplier List (for high risk contracts or contracts valued over $500,000)?
No. Part 1: Head Agreement of the Procure IT v3.2 framework is not applicable to non-panel arrangements under the ICT Services Scheme. To engage ICT goods and services with a customer under the ICT Services Scheme, Advanced Registered Suppliers and customers need only execute Part 2: Customer Contract of Procure IT Version 3.2 [7], the General Order Form and any applicable schedules and Modules.
7.Do customers need to fill in Item 7 of the Procure IT Version 3.2 General Order Form?
No. Item 7 of the General Order Form should be left blank because it only applies to arrangements with a head agreement. Item 11 of the General Order Form has been revised to allow customers to specify that the customer contract (the order) is placed under the ICT Services Scheme.
8.If a customer intends to place multiple orders with a supplier on the Advanced Registered Supplier List, does the Procure IT Version 3.2 Part 2: Customer Contract need to be executed for each order, even if the multiple orders are with the same supplier?
No. For multiple orders with the same supplier, execute Part 2: Customer Contract once. However, it is important that both parties execute a separate General Order Form and applicable schedules and modules for each and every order, regardless of whether it is with the same supplier.
Contact details
ICT/Digital Sourcing
McKell Building
2-24 Rawson Place
Sydney NSW 2000
Telephone: 1800 679 289 [50]
Email: ICTServices@customerservice.nsw.gov.au [8]
Web: www.procurepoint.nsw.gov.au [51]