3.5 Private sector interface

Prior to the release of the invitation for EOI and as part of the development and refinement of the project scope, it is useful to engage with the private sector. This engagement has a range of benefits for both government and the private sector. For example, this interface can assist the government in ensuring a common understanding of the project requirements and encouraging market interest and participation. In addition, it can enable the private sector to assist in the shaping of the project specifics to ensure that an optimal outcome is achieved.

There is a range of issues that may be discussed at this phase based on project specifics. Some examples include:

• the scope of the project;

• design or constructability issues (including likely planning and environmental approval conditions to the extent they can be foreseen);

• project timelines;

• project-specific issues and requirements; and

• market interest and capability.

For larger and more complex projects market sounding could also test the potential packaging of the project and the scale of discrete elements. This could inform how the Procuring Agency considers interface risk and structures the project to take to market.

For a smaller project, market sounding could also include the potential bundling of sites or elements to test market appetite for a bundled approach.

Engaging with the private sector is normally subject to probity considerations relevant to each jurisdiction.