Overview

This policy demonstrates Council's commitment to delivering leading practice in Council’s purchasing of goods, services and works that align with the principles of transparency, probity and good governance in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (the Regulations).

The public exhibition period for this policy was 13 March - 9 April 2024, submissions have now closed.

Any submissions received will be reviewed and the policy will be presented to Council for adoption in May 2024.

Purpose

Council believes that overall policy must be underpinned by sound principles, which are well understood; communicated to the community and staff and is compliant with current legislation.

Council’s objectives in establishing this Policy are to:

  • Ensure compliance with the Local Government Act 1993 and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021.
  • Ensure leading practice policies and procedures are followed in relation to the purchasing and disposal activities for Wagga Wagga City Council.
  • Undertake purchasing and disposal processes that ensure value for money for the Council by delivering the most advantageous outcome possible.
  • Ensure openness, transparency, fairness and equity through the purchasing and disposal process to all potential suppliers and buyers therefore strengthening integrity and confidence in the purchasing and disposal practices.
  • Ensure efficient and consistent purchasing and disposal processes are implemented and maintained across Council.
  • Ensure compliance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (“GIPAA”) and the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (“PPIPA”), and associated records management practices and procedures of Council.


Summary of Changes

The requirement to receive two written quotes within the policy is proposed to be increased from $1,500 up to $5,000.

The $1,500 threshold amount dates back to approximately 2008. The $5,000 amount has been deemed to be at the appropriate level by Management, considering:

  • efficient business operations;
  • ensuring value for money is achieved;
  • risk tolerance level


What happens next?

Following this public exhibition period, Council will receive a further report addressing any submissions made with respect to the proposed changes to the Procurement and Disposal Policy (POL 110) and proposing adoption of the policy unless there are any recommended amendments deemed to be substantial and requiring a further public exhibition period.