DPS has focused on building internal capability through enhanced education and formal training programs for staff during 2017–18, leading to increased awareness of procurement practices and financial frameworks. DPS’ frameworks continue to be managed in accordance with the Commonwealth Procurement Rules (CPRs), the PGPA Act and DPS’ Accountable Authority Instructions (AAIs).

DPS’ primary procurement objectives are to:

• ensure the principle of value for money is consistently obtained through:
  • encouraging competition
  • promoting efficient, economical and ethical use of resources, and
  • conducting our business in an environment of accountability and transparency
• support the business requirements of each branch within the department through a focus on better practice procurement and contracting arrangements
• encourage the use of Indigenous business and support the Indigenous Procurement Policy, and
• engage small and medium enterprises and local businesses wherever this is practicable and represents value for money.

DPS has a specialist procurement unit to ensure that:

• established guidelines and procedures are observed by DPS staff undertaking procurement and contract management activities
• statutory reporting responsibilities are met
• contracting and tendering activities are monitored, and
• ongoing training is provided to areas of the department that are involved in procurement and contract management activities.