Evaluating Tenders and Quotations

evaluating tenders and quotations2

All Requests for Tenders (RFT) and Quotations (RFQ) will include specific evaluation criteria, and all submissions will be assessed against the specific criteria. Council awards a contract to a supplier who distinguishes themselves from the competition during the evaluation process, considering innovative practices, customer focus, value for money, relevant experience and demonstrated capacity to fulfil requirements.

When addressing the evaluation criteria, you should:  

  • Always ensure you read the criteria carefully and understand what is being asked of you. 

  • Make sure the returnable schedules are completed and signed.

  • Provide evidence of how and when you previously undertook similar works. You will need to sell yourself and your business’ capability.

  • Be clear and concise. Only provide information that has been requested.

  • Set yourself apart from your competitors by emphasising or demonstrating your capacity to fulfil the requirements of the work.

What the evaluation panel looks for

Value for money

Value for money may be assessed against the following outcomes: 

  • Cost-related factors, including whole-of-life costs and other transaction costs associated with the purchase of goods and/or services.  

  • Non-cost factors such as fitness for purpose, innovation, quality, risk, service, support, work health and safety (WHS), community, environment and sustainability requirements.  

  • Contribution to the advancement of Council priorities, especially those set out in Council’s current Community Strategic Plan and Delivery Program. 

Local Capacity Program

The weighting of 5% is given to local suppliers for purchases over $100,000 (inc. GST).

A weighting between 1% to 4% is given to a contractor who subcontracts work from a registered Camden LGA business. 

Conforming submission

To present a conforming submission, you must sign and complete all relevant returnable schedules addressing the evaluation selection criteria and required documents listed in the RFT or RFQ. Failure to do so will result in your submission being considered non-conforming. Below are some requirements you may need to provide. However, please note that all RFTs and RFQs are different, therefore, the requirements may be different. 

  • Pricing requirements – ensure you understand the requirements for pricing, including any conditions attached to the pricing.  

  • Insurance and licence requirements RFQs and RFTs will be specific about the types and levels of insurance cover required. The most common insurances are Public Liability, Professional Indemnity and Workers Compensation, but there may be additional industry-specific requirements for the work being undertaken. Successful contractors may be required to register for Conserve which maintains and records the required insurances and licenses for Camden Council contractorsConserve charges a minimal annual fee to register.   

  • Resources – resources may include financial and human resources. You may be asked to provide a history of your business or organisational chart. Council may also ask you to provide referees to verify your capabilities and work experience.  

Statement of Business Ethics

Included in all of Council’s tender documents is a formal Statement of Business Ethics. This document sets out the ethical standards for all business dealings between Council and the supplier. You will be asked to sign a declaration that you have read and understood the Statement of Business Ethics. For a full copy of Council’s Statement of Business Ethics click HERE.