Questions for lawyers Found 20

We were partway through a government tender when the agency issued an addendum that changed the scope and evaluation weightings. We had already invested heavily in our proposal. Can they do that, and what are our rights?

A ministry has told me that I need to be on an approved panel before I can be considered for work in my field. I have not heard of this before. How do panels work, and how do I get on one? I want to make sure I am not missing anything important before I decide what to do.

I believe a local government body has been consistently favouring one supplier and ignoring its own rules. Is there an independent body I can complain to and what would it investigate? I would appreciate some clarity on what the law actually requires here.

My company was previously convicted of a workplace safety offence and I am worried we might be blacklisted from government work. Can agencies exclude us from tenders because of past behaviour? I have tried asking around but nobody seems to give me a clear answer.

I run a small services business and would like to supply to government agencies and councils, but I have no idea where these opportunities are advertised or what the process involves. Where should I start, and are there any special rules?

Several firms in my industry regularly talk to each other before tenders, and it seems they take turns winning contracts. I am concerned it is illegal, but I do not want to get in trouble myself. What is the law on this?

We are an overseas company interested in bidding for contracts with New Zealand government agencies. Are there restrictions on foreign suppliers, or does New Zealand have to treat us equally under trade agreements?

We are a subcontractor working for a company that won a large council contract, and they are delaying our payments. Does the fact that this is a public contract give us any additional protection? I would like to know what steps I should take next to protect myself.

I manage a contract with a supplier that has repeatedly missed deliverables for our agency. We are concerned about the impact on public services, but we do not want to face a legal fight. What are our options and how should we proceed?

Our bid was unsuccessful and we want to know why so that we can improve for future tenders. The agency says a debrief is available on request but we are unsure what to expect. What information should we get?