NSW Engineering and Design Drafting Sector Sees Surge in Tenders, Major Contracts Awarded, and Procurement Reforms

Sydney, NSW – June 21, 2025 — The engineering and design drafting industry across New South Wales is experiencing a wave of activity as government agencies and local councils roll out new tenders, award significant contracts, and implement procurement reforms aimed at supporting local businesses.

Major Tenders Open Across State and Local Government

The NSW Government has announced several high-profile tender opportunities, including the ACT Technical and Engineering Consultant Panel (TECP), which is open for submissions until June 19, 2025. The panel seeks consultants in engineering, architecture, planning, and construction administration, providing a broad platform for industry engagement.

Transport for NSW continues to drive infrastructure growth, with multiple tenders available for transport planning and traffic engineering. The state’s infrastructure pipeline, extending through 2028, signals ongoing demand for engineering and drafting services.

At the local level, Cessnock City Council is seeking suppliers for stationery and ancillary items, with submissions closing June 24, 2025. Lithgow City Council is actively procuring for engineering design and construction services, recently awarding contracts for the Sweet Briar Sewage Pumping Station and Wolgan Road Concept Design.

Significant Contracts Awarded

In a major boost for the sector, AEMO Services has announced the results of the NSW Roadmap competitive tender for long duration energy storage. Three projects, totaling over 1 gigawatt of capacity, were awarded in February 2025, marking a record for energy storage support in the state.

Sydney Water has also named GHD as a Design Development Partner for advanced water and wastewater infrastructure projects. The utility is piloting the use of NEC4 contracts, with the ProMac water supply upgrade project leading the way.

Lithgow City Council awarded several contracts in June, including $2.27 million to SNG Engineering Pty Ltd for sewage pumping station works and $5.96 million to WSP Pty Ltd for Wolgan Road design and environmental services.

Procurement Reforms and Policy Updates

The NSW Government has introduced new procurement guidelines requiring agencies to justify decisions not to select local suppliers, as part of its “Buy Local” initiative. Infrastructure NSW has also released new partnership principles with the construction industry, emphasizing collaboration, local participation, and decarbonisation.

A renewed focus on sustainability is evident, with mandatory carbon impact reporting now required for all major infrastructure projects, supporting the state’s net zero by 2050 target.

Council Meetings Drive Local Engineering Initiatives

Recent council meetings have seen a flurry of engineering-related decisions. Inner West Council has fast-tracked planning controls to address the housing emergency, aiming to deliver 7,800 new dwellings by 2029. City of Sydney’s Local Planning Panel approved a major development in Rosebery, while Lismore City Council adopted a new Reconciliation Action Plan and advanced road repair initiatives.

Upcoming Opportunities

Immediate tender deadlines include Cessnock City Council’s supply contract (June 24) and various ongoing engineering consultancy opportunities with Lithgow City Council. AEMO Services’ next round of long duration storage tenders is underway, with results expected by early 2026.

Industry Outlook

With robust government investment, streamlined procurement, and a strong push for sustainability, the outlook for engineering and design drafting businesses in NSW remains positive. Local firms are encouraged to monitor government tender portals and council announcements for new opportunities.

For more information on current tenders and contract awards, visit the NSW Government eTendering portal and local council websites.