If you’ve ever had to get a security clearance as part of you employement or contract, you would know that it can be quite a long process. Government departments acknowledge that there is frequently a backlog of security clearance applications and as a result many of these services are being outsourced. This week we look at two security vetting opportunities, one with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT), the other for the Department of Defence.
Both departments are seeking to establish a panel of providers under a Deed of Standing Offer to assist with processing personnel security clearance applications and related vetting services for departmental staff and contractors. The scope of services is similar for both departments and includes initial security clearance processing for the following security clearance levels:
. Baseline
. Negative Vetting level 1
. Negative Vetting level 2; and
revalidation security clearance processing of existing clearances.
It is to be noted that clearance work will be required to be undertaken nationwide and at times overseas for DFAT. Both departments have clear guidelines regarding turn around times for clearance reviews and Defence has provided industry benchmarks as background information. Tenderers will be expected to have all the required security infrastructure, both in in terms of physical and information security, and this must be evidenced in policy and procedures.
DFAT – Security Vetting Services: RFT closes 28 Feb 19
Defence – Security Vetting Service: RFT closes 1 Mar 19. Note an industry briefing was held for this opportunity late Dec last year. Briefing notes are currently available on Austender.
Both opportunities are for an initial term of 3 years with options for extension.
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.
