Approach to market on next stage of NIMPS

We are continuing to progress planning for Government consideration of a new Multipurpose Health Services (MPS) facility for Norfolk Island.

An approach to market to gauge interest from the construction sector for involvement in the MPS project is about to be released on Austender. The Invitation to Register is the first of a two-phase procurement process, to identify interested and qualified construction contractors to undertake Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) and Head Contractor services for this significant project.

Once the contractors have been short-listed through the registration phase, they will then be invited to submit tenders for the ECI contract (second phase).

No decision has been reached on the site of the new facility, with design work undertaken for both the existing NIHRACS site and Lot 44a, for Government consideration. Ongoing community concerns about traffic and other issues with 44a are acknowledged and are being incorporated into the options for this project. The first-stage ECI procurement activities can take place independently of any decision and does not commit the Department to a decision regarding site options.

While we are able to commence the initial procurement activity, progression to the construction stage is subject to Government budget and Parliamentary approval processes.

Last month, the design services contractor GHD was on island exploring options for the use of locally sourced timber materials for construction of the MPS facility. This would not only reduce freight impacts and costs while promoting sustainability, but also support the local business sector.

The site visit for the forestry study, conducted with support from Parks Australia, went well, with the team inspecting the eucalypt plantation in the National Park forestry zone. Early indications are the eucalypt plantation would provide a suitable resource. There was also determined to be on-island capacity and interest to cut the timber. The GHD team will now do further feasibility work on this option, ahead of community engagement in due course.

The ITR will be published on AusTender and can be accessed at www.tenders.gov.au

We will continue to keep the community updated throughout the procurement process. If you have any questions, please contact territories_projects@infrastructure.gov.au

Eric Hutchinson

Administrator of Norfolk Island

1 November 2022