4.3.1 Project development

Following endorsement of the project by government as a PPP, the project is further developed. This will require the assembly of resources and the development of the project structure and commercial principles in readiness for seeking formal market interest. Key aspects during the project development phase include:

• assemble resources. The complexity and scale of PPPs require a team-based management approach to ensure all required skills are effectively applied. The appropriate resourcing of a project is critical to its success. For PPP projects, the specialist expertise required for the project includes commercial, financial, technical, operational and legal skills. The exact skills and experience required will vary depending on the nature of the project. Special consideration may be required to ensure sufficient resources are available to fill specialist roles. It is critical to identify the time commitment required from key advisors in the PPP process. Key roles also include:

a project director responsible for delivery of the project;

a project steering committee to direct the development of the project and deal with key issues; and

a dedicated project team to develop and implement the PPP project, comprising commercial, financial, legal, and technical expertise.

• project plan and timetable. A clear project plan not only dealing with tender timetable but also allowing for review processes (such as 'Gateway' type reviews), environmental and planning approval processes and any community consultation;

• probity plan. At this point, a probity practitioner should be appointed, to assist in the development of a probity plan that is endorsed by the project steering committee. The probity practitioner will also assist in developing processes to ensure the probity principles outlined in this plan are followed and communicated to the relevant stakeholders;

• commence key work streams. Further development of the design requirements, operational and service requirements, key commercial principles, preliminary risk allocation and work of the PSC; and

• private sector interface. Engagement with the private sector on matters such as scope, timelines, market interest and capability.