ARRB was commissioned to carry out a review of the consistency, efficiency and effectiveness of current road maintenance delivery methods in Australia and internationally, and recommend an implementation strategy for the Australian Northern Territory Government, utilising local and international industry best practice whilst taking account of the unique geographic and demographic challenges faced. A number of existing procurement methods: lump sum, schedule of rates, term maintenance contract, term network contract, managing agent contractor, and private finance were reviewed. Whilst each of these possesses qualities that are beneficial as an overall entity, they are unable to address all of the issues faced in the Northern Territory, like sparse population, large area, large road network, remote locations, limited resources, and limited budgets. The recommended contract procurement model was a new alliance type model that encompassed both traditional and private finance philosophies. It also provides institutional strengthening to both the government and contracting bodies. The new model is considered a generational contract move, as it is highly flexible and scalable, permitting it to effectively operate in both sparse and populated regions. Only minimal modification to its "plug and play" framework is required to adapt to the requirements of stakeholders. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E214938.
Abstract