13.3  Probity plan

Key elements in drafting a probity plan or procurement conduct plan or similar are:

•  plan the engagement and role of a probity auditor - one element of the role is to endorse the probity plan;

•  ensure that related parties have developed and implemented reasonable safeguards to ensure the probity of the bidding process;

•  formally specify levels of authority for making decisions and commitments and for the conduct of dealings with particular persons or bodies, including bidders;

•  formally specify principles and practices for access, dissemination, use and storage in relation to project information and records;

•  allocate responsibility and authority for management of probity, including responding to problems and queries;

•  set out principles and procedures that will promote probity with efficiency. Ensure in particular that the principles and procedures will not inhibit achievement of project objectives. A principle or procedure must be redesigned if, for example, it could result in incomplete questioning of material presented by a bidder; and

•  develop a strategy to promote a probity culture.

Individual jurisdictions will have probity templates available for use in PPP projects.