Prequalification Schemes
Prequalification Schemes provide access for NSW Government Agencies and buyers to a list of suppliers that have been prequalified to supply construction services.
Prequalification is based on a proven record of satisfactory performance and financial and technical capacity. Contractors and consultants must demonstrate a sound business structure, adequate finances, effective management systems, appropriate qualifications and expertise, relevant experience and a history of good project performance may be eligible for prequalification.
The prequalification schemes encourage contractors to commit to long-term continuous improvement to achieve exceptional performance on construction projects in return for increased business opportunities and longer-term relationships through cooperative contracting.
There are two main pre-qualification schemes:
National Prequalification System for Non-residential Building (NPS)
In New South Wales, the NPS will be part of the NSW Government Procurement System for Construction. NPS criteria will apply to applications for prequalification for non-residential building contracts estimated at $50 million and above. Tendering, including selective tendering and tender process management will comply with the requirements of the NSW Government Procurement System for Construction managed by the Department of Services, Technology & Administration.
The NPS does not apply to the construction of civil engineering assets such as roads and bridges which are addressed in the companion Austroads National Prequalification System for Civil (Road and Bridge). The NPS does not apply to water and wastewater infrastructure projects.
Contractors with their head office in New South Wales wishing to apply for prequalification under the NPS and/or for mutual recognition in other States, should apply to the Department of Services, Technology & Administration.
A new National Prequalification System for Non-residential Building works (NPS) has been developed by the Australasian Procurement and Construction Council (APCC) in conjunction with State and Territory jurisdictions. The NPS commences on 1 January 2011. Where prequalification is used as part of the procurement process, participating agencies in each State will apply the NPS to non-residential building projects where the construction contract estimate is $50 million and above. Participating agencies will apply the NPS to relevant tender processes from 1 March 2011.