Government tenders are a contract to supply, deliver or perform a service for the government. A tender is a formal invitation for suppliers to give the government their best offer for meeting strict set requirements and conditions of the tender. The terms of Government tenders are highly competitive, with many suppliers vying for the same contract at any one time. With such stiff competition, it can seem difficult if not impossible to be successfully awarded a contract from a Government Tender. The good news is that there are some steps you can take to increase your chances of success.
Tips on how to find government tenders
- Register with Government tenders sites
This is a great way to find out about tenders, and make sure you are keeping on top of the latest government tenders that target your area. It is also a good way to keep track of tenders that haven’t been posted yet.
- Know more about the Govt tender process
In order to successfully bid for a government contract, you need to know what needs to be done, when it has to be done, what expectations you have from your bid (often these expectations are broken down into 3/4ths which are mandatory and 1/4th which are non-mandatory or optional) etc. You can research all this information on government tender processes and get familiar with the requirements.
- Consider your capabilities
It is crucial to know what you can provide, and if possible, have an idea of what the cost of your products or services will be. You will find government tenders in Australia are awarded on a ‘best value’ basis pricing, which means that while price may be considered by the tender evaluation committee, it might only be one of a number of factors. Being aware of ‘best value’ government tender processes will give you the best chance of responding to those processes successfully.
- Know the procurement rules
There are often special procurement rules for government tenders and when you bid, or otherwise communicate to suppliers who do not comply with the law, you could risk receiving a negative response from the tender evaluation committee. This is referred to as a ‘prohibited bidders’ notice.
- Know what information must be provided in your tender response
You must provide certain information in your tenders. For example, when it comes to your bid documents such as technical specifications, supporting documents and authorities as well as financial and tax documents may need to be included.
- Keep up to date with government tender processes
Government tenders can be posted on various websites such as AusTender and BidWiki. On the side of each tender there will usually be a ‘tender watch’ button that can be used to monitor the latest tenders and track funding for upcoming tenders. You can also sign-up for email alerts on tenders that are expected to close soon so you can follow them closely.
- Gather industry intelligence
Government tenders can be highly competitive. The best way to get an edge is to know what your competitors are doing. Investigate what they are submitting to the tender, and how well they are doing by following their tenders. This will also allow you to know if there is anything you need to do differently, or could do better in order to increase your chances of winning the tender.
- Understand where government tenders come from
Government tenders may come from a number of areas including Federal Government bodies such as funding agencies and departments, State Government bodies and Local Government bodies such as municipalities.