DFAT issues request for tender for global communications

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has released a Request for Tender for its first major procurement under the International Communications Network (ICN) Program.

ICN is a five-year program to modernise, replace and improve the core systems and infrastructure of DFAT’s global communications network.

“DFAT’s global communications network is as strategic asset for the government, and is critical in supporting essential government services to Australians,” said the department in a press release. “These include passports, consular services and visas, as well as the Australian Government’s domestic and international policy objectives, particularly its national security, economic diplomacy, trade and investment promotion agenda.”

DFAT’s network connects more than 140 sites in Australia and overseas on a 24/7 basis. This includes 95 diplomatic posts, ministerial and state offices as well as more than 45 Australian government partner agencies.

The RFT for ICT Global Support Centre Services and Service Management Capability within the ICN Program will seek to enter into new arrangements that will see a range of improved management tools and self-service options for the department’s global communications network.

A briefing to industry about the RFT will be held in Canberra on Tuesday, 2 September.