Increasingly, government agencies are approaching industry for innovative ideas ahead of any Request for Tender (RFT) release. These approaches to market – Requests for Information (RFIs) – seek to guage feasibility of an idea and gain an undertsanding of possible solutions. At times this could be the introduction of a brand new concept entirely, or it could be an agency seeking a new way of doing their business as usual.
This week we look at an RFI issued by The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) to provide AtoN maintenance services and/or Emergency Towage Capability (ETC). While a standard activity of the agency, AMSA is seeking innovative solutions to achieving these tasks and seeks to understand if there have been any new initiatives or improvements in the market. As an agency, AMSA provides an effective system of marine Aids to Navigation (AtoN) to the commercial shipping industry that meets the standards set by the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA). The AtoN network consists of approximately 485 aids to navigation and 380 sites around Australia’s coastline which assist mariners to make safe and efficient passages.
The existing programmed budget for provision of these services over the current 10 year contract period is $130M for AtoN maintenance and $114M for ETC Level 1. As part of the proposal, AMSA is considering establishing a new contract, with a term of 8 years (with 2 x 2 year extension options), beginning on 1 July 2024.
This RFI will provide industry with the opportunity to indicate interest in providing this service, as well as offer feed back on how the requirement should be shaped, the relevant contracting model and advise on any new innovations that might provide better outcomes for AtoN maintenance and Level 1 ETC services.
It is important to note that RFIs are not a commitment of any procurement, but allows industry to shape the final outcome should it eventuate. This RFI closes on 28 February 2022.
If you are after further advice on this topic or any other opportunity listed below, feel free to contact us. You can also subscribe to this newsletter for regular weekly updates.
