Which columns make a departure reviewable?
Use one row per issue. Preserve the exact requirement reference, then record the proposed response and the approval route.
| Field | Purpose | Reviewer |
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | Show the source | Bid lead |
| Departure | State the proposed position | Commercial lead |
| Reason | Explain the basis | Technical or commercial |
| Effect | Show time, price or scope | Estimator |
| Status | Control approval | Authorised reviewer |
How does a departure differ from a clarification?
A clarification asks the buyer to explain or confirm the tender. A departure proposes a qualification or change. Follow the issued instructions for how each must be submitted.
- Source clause or schedule
- Proposed position
- Reason and consequence
- Required approval
- Buyer response and final status
What should be checked at close?
Reconcile every approved departure with the response, price, programme and contract review. A departure left only in an internal register may not have been submitted.
Common questions
What else should the bid team know?
What should a departures schedule record?
It should contain the requirement, proposed position, reason, effect, owner, approval status and buyer response.
Who reviews a departures schedule?
Commercial and contracts reviewers approve the position, with technical input where the departure changes design or delivery.
Can this page replace the tender instructions?
No. The issued tender, its addenda and the responsible technical, commercial or legal reviewers control the final position.
Primary sources
- Commonwealth Procurement RulesAustralian Government Department of Finance
- Additional rules: request documentationAustralian Government Department of Finance
- The Construction PlaybookUK Cabinet Office
- FAR Part 15: Contracting by NegotiationAcquisition.gov