Who buys, and where not for profit tenders are advertised
Community services work is usually advertised on state government portals and council sites. Some is offered as grants rather than tenders, so check both.
See where to find tenders in Australia for every official portal.
What buyers usually ask for
- Your program model and how it fits the community
- Outcomes you will measure and report
- Staff qualifications, screening and supervision
- Cultural safety and accessibility
- Partnerships and referral pathways
- Budget, often against a fixed funding amount
Common knock outs to check first
- Working with Children or other screening checks where required
- Mandatory policies, such as child safety or complaints
- Insurances at the level asked
- Required forms and financial statements
Read our guide to tender knock outs for how to find them all.
How to stand out in disability services tenders
- Show the outcomes you have achieved before, with numbers you can stand behind
- Explain how clients find you and how you keep them engaged
- Name partner organisations and what each one does
- Keep the budget consistent with your staffing plan
Before you decide to bid
Check you can meet every mandatory requirement, that the size and location suit you, and that you have a similar job and a referee to show. If three answers are no, it is usually one to walk away from. Use our go or no go questions.
Questions
Is a grant the same as a tender?
No. A grant funds an activity, often with less detail on price. A tender buys a defined service. The writing skills are similar, but the rules and paperwork differ.
Can a small business win community services tenders?
Yes. Many contracts are sized for small and medium businesses, and some buyers have policies that support them. Pick tenders that match your capacity, and prove every claim with past work and referees.