Module 5 - VicForests

FOREST AUDIT PROGRAM TOOLBOX
3 SELECTION OF AUDITOR(S)
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) appoints environmental Auditors
pursuant to Section 53S of the Environment Protection Act 1970. Environmental
Auditors are appointed to carry out statutory duties pursuant to this Act (and other
Acts), which may include audits on segments of the environment or conducting
environmental audits of the risk to the beneficial uses of the environment associated
with industrial processes or activities.
DSE is responsible for administering the FAP and will engage environmental Auditors
to conduct specific audits as required.
Generally, environmental Auditors will be expected to bid for the Auditor role through
a commercial, fee-for-service arrangement with DSE.
This will be done on the basis of:
• Written proposal submitted in response to a request for proposal issued by DSE;
• Presentation(s) or interviews; and
• Any clarifications submitted by the firm concerning the above.
Performance of bidders against the selection criteria will be assed by DSE in
consideration of value for money (including consideration of technical ability and
quoted price).
3.1 GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT PROCESS
In accordance with the Victorian Government’s Procurement Procedures, DSE will
issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the provision of audit services. Assessment
criteria that may be considered by DSE in selecting service providers may include:
• Demonstrated ability to deliver projects and milestones on time and budget;
• Demonstrated understanding, identification and resoluation of issues in previous
environmental audit processes, and recognition of the importance of consultation;
• The Auditor’s technical skills and relevance of auditing competency to forestry
operations, and experience in stakeholder consultation;
• Demonstrated independence and integrity, and ability to ensure that audits are
conducted in a manner consistent with the Environment Protection Act 1970;
FOREST AUDIT PROGRAM – MODULE 2 AUDIT PROCESS PAGE 22