WHILE numerous business sectors have been negatively impacted by the events of 2020, risk management solutions provider SAI Global says there is “enormous hope” in the wave of government-funded projects that will commence in 2021.

The company says the billions that federal and state governments have allocated towards infrastructure, digital security, energy and local community projects will help multiple industries rebound.

“Well-funded government projects on which the private sector can partner include the federal government’s $800m spend on biometric security, $1.7bn in cybersecurity and $270bn in defence,” said SAI Global.

Examples in NSW include the government’s investment of $273m to establish the state as a trading hub, $32bn to transition the state to renewable energy and $100m to upgrade community sporting facilities. South Australia is investing $60m in energy-efficient buildings while the Queensland Government is investing $13.9bn in infrastructure.

“Demonstrating just how serious they are about growing the public-private partnership to facilitate economic recovery and boost the business sector, the federal and NSW governments are improving their procurement processes on digital platforms,” said SAI Global.

The federal government’s platforms marketplace investment will provide guided procurement pathways and digital sourcing advice, while a new NSW government procurement hub will connect departments with businesses and simplify procurement.

SAI Global recommends that private-sector businesses prepare for tender pre-registration now, to secure lucrative opportunities in 2021 and beyond – and give their businesses a much-needed boost.

Kiran Bhagat, OHS and quality management systems expert at SAI Global, said, “Applying for tenders the first time can be costly, time-consuming and complex, but – as a supplier to government ourselves – we know from experience is worth the effort.

“Government clients pay on time, contracts can be lucrative, contract values can be large, and delivery times can be long term.”

Mr Bhagat said using the current quieter post-pandemic period to get tender-ready is a sensible idea, particularly for businesses that are new to the process.

“The first step is to understand how the government tender process works, meet government criteria and follow a successful pre-tender journey. This will also help businesses determine the resources they require: we recommend putting in place a small team dedicated to getting the business tender-ready.”

By preparing for tender now, businesses will be ready to apply as soon as a request for tender is announced.

“Tenders will be the Australian economic honey pot of 2021, with governments spending strategically and generously to demonstrate their serious commitment to Australia’s recovery,” Mr Bhagat said.