DHS is pleased to confirm the Performance Monitoring Program was formally endorsed on 2 June 2008 for implementation prior to commencement of the operating phase, consistent with VAGO's recommendation.
DHS notes the process for managing, monitoring and reviewing the Performance Monitoring Program (PMP) is also referenced in the Contract Administration Manual (CAM), with this to be finalised prior to commencement-as defined by the RWH project agreement-of hospital functions on 22 June 2008.
As for the Performance Monitoring Program, DHS documentation of the abatement process-in particular management, monitoring and review-is fully complete, consistent with VAGO's recommendation.
Contract management for the RWH Project has been well resourced to date as evidenced by the October 2007 appointment of the RWH Contract Administrator-well in advance of the operating phase-and the March 2008 appointment of a senior contract manager to assist the RWH Contract Administrator.
Both roles during the current Design and Construction phase have supported the RWH Project Director, whom in turn has DHS accountability for contract management prior to commencement of the operating phase.
These contract management resources have and will continue to be made available by DHS through its Major Projects Unit, until such time as a standalone business unit for contract management is created.
DHS notes that the Partnerships Victoria Contract Management Guidelines do not provide a target date for typical CAM completion. The critical aspects identified by the guidelines for effective contract management have been established either in processes or systems, or are available to the RWH Project Director and the RWH Contract Administrator in various existing documents, some of which are discussed in the responses to the other recommendations.
Whereas the RWH Contract Management Plan does state that some CAM elements have a revised due date for completion of November 2008, this only refers to adapting existing documents, processes and policies into a consistent form and style that will permit eventual compilation of a CAM that is easier to use.