Priority 3: Engage to support good procurement

Deliver the expansion program

In 2021, the VGPB expanded its goods and services procurement policy framework to include approximately a further 125 agencies. After a two-year transition period, expansion agencies now assess their compliance with the VGPB policy framework under the attestation process set by the Standing Directions 2018 under the Financial Management Act 1994 (2018 Directions). Refer to the Compliance section to see how agencies have assessed their progress with implementing the VGPB policies.

The broader application of VGPB policies is embedding consistent best practice procurement governance arrangements and processes across government. It also provides greater oversight of government spending with the wider use of SPCs.

Transition to state purchase contracts

Incoming agencies are now completing their transition to SPCs as existing contracts expire. SPCs can reduce the time and money spent on procuring commonly purchased goods and services. They offer access to aggregated demand, increased contract efficiency through pre-agreed contract terms, and centralised supplier due diligence, oversight and contract management.

Engagement

The VGPB values strong engagement and staying connected with CPOs to get feedback on its work program. This helps ensure that VGPB policies and activities are fit-for-purpose. Throughout 2023–24, the Board continued its series of CPO presentations, inviting CPOs from various departments and expansion agencies to share their procurement experiences and insights (see Figure 1). Each presentation helps the VGPB build a stronger understanding of procurement ‘on the ground’, while also hearing firsthand about stakeholders' perspectives and concerns. This collaboration between the VGPB and CPOs helps achieve good procurement outcomes. For agencies transitioning to VGPB policies and SPCs, it’s also an opportunity to access direct transition support from the VGPB. This support is reinforced by DGS who provide one-on-one check-ins with all agency CPOs.

Departments and agencies can also seek Board member expertise and input on high-value strategic procurements. In 2023–24, Victoria Police sought Board member advice for two complex, high-value procurements. Board members provided insights and advice to support achieving a value-for-money outcome, which was well received by Victoria Police.
DGS manages an online Buyers’ Community of Practice group on the Victorian Public Sector Innovation Network, which provides additional support to all government buyers. The Buyers’ Community of Practice has grown to more than 1 000 members, giving procurement professionals across government access to policy updates, resources and materials.

Figure 1: CPO presentations at VGPB meetings in
2023–24