Coalition calls for industry feedback on ICT overhaul
The Victorian Coalition Government is calling for industry feedback on its plan to overhaul the way Information and Communications Technology (ICT) services are procured by government departments and agencies.
Speaking at the 2012 iAwards, Assistant Treasurer Gordon Rich-Phillips said the Victorian Coalition Government had developed an implementation plan to transition to an eServices register by July 2013.
"Every year Victorian Government departments and agencies make a substantial investment in technology services," Mr Rich-Phillips said.
"A report into the eServices panel set up by the former Labor Government found the panel lacked visibility and transparency, resulted in lengthy tender processes, incomplete expenditure reporting and poor evaluation of life cycle costs and benefits.
"Taxpayers and industry will see a more efficient procurement process as a result of the Coalition Government's overhaul of ICT, including the introduction of the eServices register."
The draft implementation plan outlines how the Coalition Government's proposed eServices register would work, the benefits of the new model and timelines.
"We will continue to engage with industry on the implementation plan to make sure our proposal addresses their needs," Mr Rich-Phillips said.
"This is a move toward a more flexible procurement model to give more companies, including small and medium enterprises, an opportunity to conduct business with government.
"We are looking to create an online portal to give both suppliers and government departments a rating on their engagement and service delivery.
"We have also proposed to abolish the limit on the number of businesses on the register and the number of sub-categories that can be selected," Mr Rich-Phillips said.
To be included on the register companies will have to verify they are financially sustainable, have the relevant insurances and be willing to sign a standard government contract.
Under the new plan, all existing eServices panel members will be automatically transferred to the Register. For more information or to give feedback on the plan over the next two weeks visit www.vgpb.vic.gov.au
