Australian PPP procurement processes are complex. Some of this complexity is necessary to deliver the outcomes that Governments desire from PPP projects. Some relates to the Australian federal political system and to the tax system that, although much improved in relation to PPP projects since 2007, remains complex. Consequently, PPP projects require significant upfront investment by new domestic entrants in recruiting staff with the requisite skills and knowledge. For experienced international participants, there are also significant set up costs associated with the development of an Australian capability. To date, both domestic and international potential participants in the Australian PPP market have cited the overall complexity of PPP procurement processes and the lack of understanding of PPPs within the context of the Australian market as key barriers to entry.
One issue also raised by several Participants was the frequent lack of useful feedback received during debrief sessions, whether they were successful or unsuccessful in their bids. Unsuccessful bidders sometimes seek a comparison of their bid with the winning bid, which Governments cannot provide within reasonable probity arrangements. However, the feedback they receive often is vague and bland, providing little guide to how they might improve future bids.