This Direction deals with procurement of operational telecommunications and radio communications equipment by or for a government agency within the meaning of the Public Works and Procurement Act 1912 (as amended).

For a number of years agencies have been able to purchase operational telecommunications infrastructure, equipment and services using Panel Contract ITS 2573 – Operational Telecommunications Services, Equipment and Infrastructure. 

Cabinet has agreed that the Telco Authority is responsible for the development of a sector-wide policy framework for operational radio and related communications in consultation with affected agencies, including spectrum acquisition and allocation. The Authority is developing a whole of government radio communications strategy. The strategy will set out the key operating models, principles and actions required to improve service delivery to frontline emergency and public safety workers, rationalise government radio communications assets and deliver value to the NSW Government from 2015 to 2025.

During the development of the strategy, the NSW Government has agreed to a range of interim measures designed to ensure that agencies’ activities are aligned with the overall direction of the sector and are in keeping with the strategy that is eventually approved.

Accordingly, under this Direction, each NSW Government agency will:

1. Where the Telco Authority establishes a product catalogue for a particular category of infrastructure or equipment under Panel Contract ITS 2573– Operational Telecommunications Services, Equipment and Infrastructure, procure goods and services off that catalogue unless exempted by the Telco Authority
2. When making any significant expenditure (over $500,000) on new radio communications assets and commercial services, and/or for new sites or new towers on a site, regardless of cost, seek Telco Authority approval (this requirement does not apply to immediate requirements that would impede the execution of a current or imminent operation by law enforcement and emergency services agencies)
3. Ensure that proposals for any expenditure outlined in (2) meet the investment principles of the NSW Government ICT Investment Policy and Guidelines.

This Direction was considered by the NSW Procurement Board on 17 September 2014 and takes effect from 1 October 2014 for a period of two years. On 6 July 2016, the Procurement Board extended this Direction until 30 September 2017.