The ACT Government is expanding Canberra’s light rail network to ensure it remains a connected, sustainable, and vibrant modern city.
Canberra’s upgraded transport network plans to safely and reliably connect passengers to work, family, learning, communities, and attractions. The first section of light rail to Woden (Stage 2A) is the construction of three new stops between the City and Commonwealth Park. The new stops at Edinburgh Avenue, City South, and Commonwealth Park will extend the existing network by 1.7 kilometres.
The second section (Stage 2B) will further extend light rail all the way to Woden. Light rail to Woden builds on the success of Stage 1 (Gungahlin to City) and will form the network’s north-south spine, connecting Canberra’s southside with the city and on to Gungahlin.
To achieve its objective of building an integrated public transport network, the ACT Government established Major Projects Canberra (MPC) to continue developing the light rail system. The Territory also established a panel of potential contractors it could invite from time to time to respond to requests to deliver services which included the Canberra Light Rail Technical Advisors Panel. Members are recognised for their experience and expertise in providing advice relating to complex technical design, procurement, and Commonwealth engagement, particularly in respect of light rail and rail in an urban context, or complex engineering systems.
This MPC Request for Tender (RFT) seeks to appoint an advisors’ panel that will supersede the existing Canberra Light Rail Technical Advisors Panel when it expires in November 2023. The newly appointed suitably qualified suppliers will provide specialist advisory services supporting the Canberra Light Rail Project, or any other project the ACT may require.
The purpose of this RFT is not to allocate work or award contracts for specific services, but MPC may invite members of the advisors’ panel to respond occasionally to Requests for Quote. Other ACT Government Directorates unrelated to the Canberra Light Rail Project may also call on the services of the panel.
Tenderers must hold active prequalification with the ACT Government and complete and submit an Ethical Suppliers Declaration. The ACT Government is also committed to ensuring competitive local businesses are given every opportunity to compete for government contracts. The Canberra Region Local Industry Participation Policy (LIPP) sets out the process and requirements for ensuring opportunities for local industry participation in Territory procurements.
The Canberra Light Rail Specialist Advisors Panel is an open panel, with organisations able to apply to join throughout its life. As such, the proposed timetable for the procurement process relating to this RFT covers the initial 4-year term, with an option to extend a further 4 years.
The closing time and date for responses will remain open until the 29 July 2027.
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