The RFP should include an Interactive Tender Process (ITP) where Responsible Agencies and NSW Treasury hold a series of individual workshops with short-listed bidders, in accordance with the procedures and timetable set out in the RFP and the probity framework.
The ITP provides short-listed bidders with an opportunity to discuss the development of their concepts and designs and to seek clarification and feedback in the context of the Government's output requirements, before lodgement of bids.
The ITP should also include a planning workshop with each short-listed bidder and the Department of Planning and Environment, so that bidders have opportunity to discuss the development approval process and any conditions that have been or are likely to be set.
The objective is to improve the quality of bid submissions, ensure bids meet key project objectives, minimise overall transaction costs and ultimately deliver better outcomes for the public, through clear communication of the Government's requirements and priorities. The sessions should facilitate a frank discussion on the Government's project affordability requirements. Responsible Agencies should contact NSW Treasury for a copy of the ITP Protocol template.
The sessions should also include discussions as required on potential variants to bids that will still be considered compliant RFP tenders.
All ITP sessions should have the Probity Adviser in attendance.