New litigation service providers announced for Immigration
Media Release - DPS 13/2000
The Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs today announced the successful tenderers to provide the department's litigation services for the next three years.
"Following a competitive tender process four firms have been selected to provide litigation services for the Department," a spokesperson for the Department said.
"These organisations are the Sparke Helmore Group, Clayton Utz, Blake Dawson Waldron, and the Australian Government Solicitor (AGS)."
This process followed recent amendments to the Judiciary Act 1903 and the untying of most Commonwealth litigation from the AGS.
"The Department receives over 1,400 cases each year, the vast bulk of which are challenges from unsuccessful visa applicants seeking to remain in Australia," the spokesperson said.
"The results of this tender process will give the department the opportunity to improve the efficiency, cost-effectiveness and accountability of its litigation services."
All firms would start on an even basis with regard to new work allocated. This would achieve a realistic, market-oriented and equitable basis on which firms could compete with each other to improve quality, foster innovation and provide better value for money.
"A meaningful allocation of work will provide the department with an equitable platform and sufficient information upon which to base evaluations of performance and cost.
"With the contract offering no guarantee of continuing work to any of the firms we will be assured of the best possible service at the most competitive rates," the spokesperson concluded.
The Department offered thanks to Dr Kathryn Cronin, from the Australian Law Reform Commission, who was the tender evaluation panel's independent member.
16 June 2000
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