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Tasmania close on telco deal

The Tasmanian government has confirmed it is close to awarding a key telecommunications contract worth some AU$11 million annually. The state currently contracts Telstra for data networking services purchased by departments and statutory authorities such as schools, under arrangements collectively known as "Networking Tasmania" (NT).
Written by Renai LeMay, Contributor

The Tasmanian government has confirmed it is close to awarding a key telecommunications contract worth some AU$11 million annually.

The state currently contracts Telstra for data networking services purchased by departments and statutory authorities such as schools, under arrangements collectively known as "Networking Tasmania" (NT).

However, the state will begin transitioning to a new contract -- "Networking Tasmania II" -- in February, following 10 months of market evaluation to find one or more new telco suppliers, which could include Telstra.

The contract is being overseen by TMD, a division of Tasmania's Department of Premier and Cabinet that manages whole of government technology projects for the state. "No award has been made to any tenderers as yet, however, finalisation of contractual arrangements are imminent," TMD board chair Rebekah Burton told ZDNet Australia via e-mail yesterday.

The state has been negotiating with the new telco/s since October, when it nominated one or more preferred suppliers, however, it has not disclosed its choice/s yet.

Despite the February commencement date for the new contract, Burton remained confident transition arrangements would be sufficient.

"The current agreement provides for a 'transition out' period that will enable an orderly transition from current NT services to future NT II service arrangements over the coming months," she said.

Burton said the total value of all contracts expected to be awarded under NT II was in the vicinity of AU$11 million per annum.

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