• From initial market engagement all the way through to contract award, buyers will need to give appropriate consideration to the procurement objectives as defined in the Act:

o   Delivering value for money – aiming to achieve the best mix of quality and price throughout the lifetime of the contract. Bidders will need to demonstrate their value that they bring to that organisation and the communities they serve

o   Maximising public benefit – Bidders should demonstrate how their solutions provide economic, social and environmental benefit.

o   Sharing information – driving greater transparency so that suppliers can gain a better understanding of policies and decision making.

o   Acting and being seen to act with integrity – demonstrating good management and control of processes to give suppliers confidence that contracts are being properly procured.

o   Treat suppliers the same – ensures suppliers are competing for a contract under equal terms, unless there is a difference between suppliers which justifies different treatment.

o   No unfair advantage or disadvantage – this includes the appropriate management of Conflicts of Interest.

o   Duty to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) – reduce the barriers SMEs may face, considering contracts from and SMEs’ perspective.