The Government’s new approach for the Australian Public Service to access competitive Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions.
The new APS ERP approach announced in November 2023 replaced the previous Shared Services Transformation Program and set the approach for how the APS will manage its ERP corporate systems, underpinned by the principles of choice, market competition, and affordability.
ERP corporate systems are fundamental for Commonwealth entities to manage corporate back-office functions. The approach ensures the APS can manage its corporate responsibilities effectively and efficiently while continuing to fulfil its legal obligations.
The approach acknowledges technology and market offerings have evolved presenting new opportunities for the APS to modernise its ERP solutions.
This approach is expected to increase competition in the ERP market and provide new opportunities for Australian small and medium businesses to sell ERP solutions to the APS.
The Government’s approach includes:
Autonomy and choice
All non-corporate Commonwealth entities have autonomy and choice to modernise ERP solutions using technology and vendors that best meet entity needs and budgets.
The approach enables entities to self-assess individual ERP solution needs.
Entities are encouraged to collaborate across Government to identify opportunities to achieve efficient and effective ERP uplifts.
Testing the market
The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) has established the ERP Products and Service Solutions category on the Software Marketplace panel.
This ERP Product and Service Solutions category provides access to core and edge technologies and services.
Use of this category is mandatory for non-corporate Commonwealth entities investing in ERP products.
The ERP Products and Service Solutions category is available via BuyICT.gov.au.
Delivering ongoing value from investment in GovERP
GovERP, has been renamed Services Australia ERP (SA ERP), and repurposed for use by Services Australia, and any entities who choose to use it.
An assessment of what has been achieved from investment in GovERP has been undertaken by the DTA. The GovERP Re-use Eminent Panel report is available on digital.gov.au.Reusable products and technical capabilities will also be available through the DTA’s Australian Government Architecture to support entities to implement future cost effective uplifts.
Transactional processing arrangements review
A review of existing transactional processing arrangements across the APS was undertaken and has informed future policy development.
The new approach does not prevent entities from seeking or continuing to receive transactional services from existing transactional processing providers including payroll services provided by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR) Shared Services Hub or the corporate transactional services provided by the Service Delivery Office (SDO) at the Department of Finance.
For more information
The mandatory ERP category on the Software Marketplace panel can be accessed via the BuyICT portal.
For information on ERP supply opportunities visit: BuyICT.gov.au.
