Purchasing
ABS procurement activities represent an important part of our strategic focus and direction. Significant items are either purchased through the Commonwealth’s Endorsed Supplier Arrangement or through a process which ensures the attainment of value for money. The ABS actively applies the Commonwealth’s core purchasing policies and principles, and through this approach ensures participation of Australian and New Zealand enterprises and small/medium businesses.
The ABS has a devolved procurement environment and ensures that all staff have access to appropriate training, or support from procurement experts, when undertaking procurement projects.
Assets management
Depreciation management forms an integral part of the organisation’s Financial and Resource Management programs. In accordance with government requirements, the ABS revalues all physical fixed assets such as property, plant and equipment on a three year cycle. Assets that have become obsolete, or excess to requirements, are disposed of in a manner consistent with sound disposal practices.
In addition to physical assets, ABS operations are supported by a large asset base of internally generated software. Long term strategic planning and judicious management has ensured that these assets have supported the organisation well in achieving its outcomes. The ABS views its information technology assets as another major resource for its business operations, and actively pursues a policy of ongoing management to ensure maximum return from these assets.
As part of its overall management strategy, the ABS actively manages its disposals program to ensure it receives value for money from assets no longer required. Where it is decided to dispose of items by auction, the ABS has established national arrangements with auctioneers under the Endorsed Supplier Arrangements. Streamlined disposal processes were applied during the move to the new corporate headquarters in ABS House. This involved auction-based disposal and direct sales, providing a good return for the Commonwealth.
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