Frequently asked questions

Businesses do not need to apply or register in advance to become a supplier. Council opportunities are advertised publicly, and businesses can respond when opportunities relevant to their services arise. Preparing your documentation and understanding Council’s procurement approach in advance will help you respond with confidence when opportunities become available.

To stay informed about upcoming procurement and government‑related opportunities, capability‑building workshops, business resources and events designed to support Sunshine Coast businesses subscribe to the links below: 

Council Business E-News - our.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/LP=349

Tender Alert Service - Tender alert service | Sunshine Coast Council

No. Council works with businesses of all sizes, including those that may be new to government procurement. What matters most is demonstrating capability, relevant experience, and your ability to meet the requirements outlined in each opportunity. 

To help you get started, you can:

• Complete a 'Fit to Supply' or readiness checklist/quiz to assess how prepared your business is to supply to government and identify any gaps.
• Participate in a 'Doing Business with Government' workshop to build your understanding of procurement processes, expectations, and how to submit competitive responses.
• Review current tender or quote documents to understand typical requirements and evaluation criteria.
• Attend supplier briefings or information sessions to learn how Council procurement works and ask questions.
• Ensure your registrations and insurances are up to date, as these are often required.

Council is committed to supporting local and small businesses, and provides resources, guidance, and opportunities to help you successfully engage and grow your capability over time.

Most procurement processes require businesses to provide information and supporting documents to demonstrate capability and manage risk. Common requirements include:

• Capability statement - a clear summary of your business, services, experience, key staff, and what makes you suitable for the work.
• Current insurances - such as public liability, professional indemnity, and workers compensation, with up-to-date certificates of currency.
• Licences and registrations - relevant industry licences, qualifications, or certifications that demonstrate you are authorised to perform the work.
• Work health and safety (WHS) documentation - evidence of your safety systems, such as policies, risk assessments, or Safe Work Method Statements.
• Environmental or sustainability information - if required, a policy or statement outlining how your business manages environmental impacts and supports sustainable practices.
• Privacy and data handling statement - if required, details on how you manage, store, and protect sensitive or personal information.
• Supporting evidence - such as case studies, references, testimonials, or examples of previous work to demonstrate your capability.

Preparing these documents in advance helps you respond efficiently and present your business as a capable, reliable, and low-risk supplier. Always check the tender documents carefully, as they will outline any mandatory requirements needed for your submission to be considered.

Value for money means more than selecting the lowest price. Council considers a range of factors to ensure the best overall outcome for the community, including quality, capability, risk, and whole-of-life costs.

Council may also consider the broader benefits your business can deliver, such as:

• Local economic impact - supporting local jobs, suppliers, and the regional economy
• Workforce outcomes - creating employment, training, or upskilling opportunities
• Inclusive practices - providing opportunities for diverse or disadvantaged groups
• Community contribution - partnerships, sponsorships, or activities that benefit the community
• Environmental sustainability - reducing waste, energy use, or environmental impact
• Innovation and efficiency - offering smarter, safer, or more effective ways to deliver the work

Considering these factors helps ensure procurement delivers lasting social, economic, and environmental value, not just cost savings. Clearly evidencing how your business delivers value across these areas can strengthen your submission and improve your competitiveness.