Request for Tender (RFT)
Definition: A formal invitation from a government agency for suppliers to submit a detailed bid to deliver specific goods, services, or works against clearly defined requirements and evaluation criteria.
What is a Request for Tender (RFT)?
A Request for Tender (RFT) is the most common procurement method used by Australian government agencies to invite suppliers to submit binding offers. Unlike an RFP or RFI, an RFT signals that the agency already knows exactly what it needs and is ready to evaluate formal bids.
How Does an RFT Work?
The procuring agency publishes the RFT on a portal such as AusTender (for Commonwealth tenders) or a state-based platform like QTenders. The document package typically includes:
- A Statement of Requirements describing the deliverables
- Evaluation Criteria with weightings
- Conditions of Contract the successful tenderer must accept
- A closing date and lodgement instructions
Suppliers prepare and submit their responses before the deadline. Submissions are then assessed against the stated criteria, and the contract is awarded to the respondent that represents the best Value for Money.
When is an RFT Used?
RFTs are used when the scope of work is well-defined and the agency can specify clear deliverables. They are standard for construction projects, IT system implementations, consulting engagements with fixed scopes, and supply of goods.
Tips for Tenderers
- Answer every criterion — evaluators score against the published criteria, so missing one can be fatal.
- Be specific — back up claims with evidence, case studies, and measurable outcomes.
- Comply with all mandatory requirements before focusing on value-adds.
- Submit early — portal upload issues near the deadline are not accepted as excuses for late lodgement.
Related Terms
AusTender
The Australian Government's central procurement information system, managed by the Department of Finance, where Commonwealth agencies publish tender opportunities, contract awards, and other procurement notices.
Evaluation Criteria
The specific factors, weightings, and standards that a government agency uses to assess and compare tender responses in order to determine which supplier offers the best value for money.
Expression of Interest EOI
A preliminary market approach where a government agency invites suppliers to indicate their interest and capability before deciding which suppliers to invite to a subsequent formal tender process.
Multi-Stage Procurement
A procurement approach conducted in two or more sequential phases, typically starting with a broad market engagement like an EOI before narrowing down to a formal tender among shortlisted suppliers.
Request for Information RFI
A non-binding market engagement where a government agency gathers information from suppliers about available solutions, capabilities, or pricing to help shape a future procurement strategy.
Request for Proposal RFP
An invitation for suppliers to propose a solution to a problem or need, where the agency defines the outcome it wants but allows respondents flexibility in how they deliver it.
Request for Quotation RFQ
A simplified procurement process used for lower-value or straightforward purchases where the agency requests pricing from one or more suppliers for clearly specified goods or services.
Statement of Requirements SOR
The section of a tender document that details exactly what goods, services, or works the government agency needs, including specifications, deliverables, timelines, and performance standards.
UNSPSC Codes UNSPSC
The United Nations Standard Products and Services Code, a hierarchical classification system used by Australian government agencies to categorise goods and services in procurement, enabling suppliers to find relevant opportunities.
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