Select Tender

What is a Select Tender?

A Select Tender (also called a selective tender or restricted tender) is a procurement approach where a government agency identifies and directly invites a shortlist of suppliers to respond, rather than advertising the opportunity to the entire market as in an Open Tender.

How Does a Select Tender Work?

1. The agency identifies potential suppliers based on market knowledge, previous Expressions of Interest, or existing Panel Arrangements
2. Selected suppliers are invited to submit a response
3. Responses are evaluated against Evaluation Criteria
4. The contract is awarded based on Value for Money

When is a Select Tender Used?

Australian government agencies may use a select tender when:

• A prior EOI or Prequalification process has already identified capable suppliers
• The procurement is through an established Panel Arrangement
• The market for the goods or services is well-known and limited
• An open approach is not required under the applicable procurement rules (e.g., below the relevant threshold)

Agencies must still ensure adequate competition and document their rationale for using a select approach.

Select Tender vs Limited Tender

A select tender still involves competition among multiple invited suppliers. A Limited Tender is more restrictive — it may involve approaching just one supplier and is only permitted in specific circumstances such as genuine urgency or when only one supplier can deliver.

Tips for Tenderers

• Build relationships and visibility — you cannot respond to a select tender unless you are invited, so agencies need to know you exist.
• Respond to EOIs and RFIs — these often feed into select tender shortlists.
• Join relevant Panel Arrangements — panels are a primary source for select tender invitations.
• Deliver quality work — agencies invite suppliers they trust and have worked with successfully.