Contract Conditions: Helping councils save time and manage risk

By Joshua Brown, General Counsel and Compliance Manager

At Local Buy, our mission is to simplify the entire procurement process for councils, spanning from going-to-market right through to successful supplier contracting. We understand the challenges and complexities involved in this journey, particularly when it comes to securing contracts with reliable suppliers. However, we believe that this process doesn't have to be stressful, time-consuming, or expensive for councils.

In the realm of council procurement, fit-for-purpose contracts are indispensable. These contracts ensure that the terms and conditions governing the acquisition of goods and services precisely align with the specific needs and objectives of the procuring entity. Serving as the cornerstone of the procurement process, these contracts define performance expectations, and outline responsibilities and obligations.

By tailoring contracts to the unique requirements of each procurement endeavour, both councils and suppliers can mitigate risks, enhance operational efficiency, and maximise the value derived from procurement activities. Furthermore, these contracts promote transparency, accountability, and fairness, fostering trust and confidence among all stakeholders involved.

Local Buy fulfills its mission to simplify local government procurement through two primary mechanisms. Firstly, we establish pre-qualified Arrangements, providing a legislative exception for local government in Queensland to undertake procurement processes. Secondly, we develop tailored conditions of contract for goods and services procured under each specific Local Buy Arrangement. These contracts, meticulously crafted by our in-house legal and procurement professionals, are designed to meet the unique needs of local government buyers.

Local Buy contracts not only saves councils time, resources, and money in engaging suppliers compliantly but also mitigates legal, commercial, and reputational risks associated with procurement. Local Buy offers complimentary contracts for councils to utilise, although councils have the option to opt for alternative contract conditions. However, our contracts automatically apply to procurement conducted through a Local Buy Arrangement in the absence of an agreed alternative agreement, ensuring councils are covered by robust and tailored contract terms.

Moreover, all Local Buy Suppliers have reviewed and agreed to these contract conditions, streamlining the contract review and negotiation process. By creating and administering fit-for-purpose contracts within council procurement, we promote transparency, accountability, and fairness, thereby fostering trust and confidence among all stakeholders involved. 

If you're interested in learning more about how your organisation can leverage Local Buy contracts to streamline council procurement, please don't hesitate to contact Joshua Brown at: E jbrown@localbuy.net.au or call our office on P 1800 524 357.