The Guide is divided into six parts as indicated in Figure 1:
Figure 1: Structure of the Guide
Summarises the legislation and related policies relevant to public sector contracting. This part also introduces a number of key issues that are relevant throughout the procurement process. | |
Outlines issues and considerations involved in the development of a contract. | |
Outlines the issues and considerations that should be addressed in finalising a contract. | |
Discusses issues and considerations relating to the general management of contracts by entities. | |
Discusses a range of issues and considerations relating to the effective management of individual contracts. | |
Outlines issues and options available for bringing a contract to a close. |
Each part of the Guide includes a discussion of key issues and considerations relevant to each contracting phase. These are in some instances complemented by case studies or examples illustrating key points, drawn from actual Australian Public Sector experiences. In some cases these have been simplified to better illustrate the point. In other cases a composite case study is presented, to illustrate several points at once. A number of contract management check lists and similar aids are also included throughout the Guide. These should be tailored to the particular circumstances of each entity and the nature and complexity of its contracting activities.
Each part of the Guide is presented, to the extent possible, as a stand alone discussion with cross-references to other parts where appropriate. The Guide also incorporates a comprehensive Index. This should allow readers with particular responsibilities and interests to navigate easily through the Guide.
The ANAO and Finance wish to acknowledge the assistance provided by Strategic Legal Services and Consulting Pty Ltd and Ms Ann Thurley in developing this Guide. A number of entities also provided valuable material and input including the Departments of Defence, Employment and Workplace Relations, Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Veterans' Affairs, Foreign Affairs and Trade, Family Court of Australia, Centrelink and the Australian National Gallery.