Government Shared Network tender released

30 September 2005

Government Shared Network tender released

The State Services Commission today released the Government Shared Network (GSN) tender.

The GSN integrates a dedicated, high speed, secure, nationwide Telecommunications network infrastructure for government agencies. The initiative will encourage collaboration between agencies and enable the realisation of commercial and operational benefits by consolidating network infrastructure.

"The Government Shared Network is an important part of the Government's Digital Strategy, along with other initiatives such as the Broadband Challenge and the Advanced Research Network," says SSC's Deputy Commissioner, Information and Communication Technologies, Laurence Millar.

"Following the Government's approval in July, support from government agencies has been strong with several preparing to join the pilot of the Shared Network in the first half of 2006."

"Support from the supplier community has also been strong, with thirty four suppliers, selected through a registration of interest, participating in the closed tender".

The Shared Network is one of several shared services projects under the E-Government Strategy which is led by the State Services Commission. It is one of the major initiatives that will contribute towards the Networked State Services Development Goal.

The timelines for the project require responses from suppliers by 30 October. This date would not be extended.

"This timeline meets the requirements of the first group of participating agencies, plus we want to see the benefits delivered as soon as possible" Laurence Millar says.

Development of the network's first phase is expected to take about six months, with the roll-out expected to begin in March 2006.

ENDS

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