Defence establishes Geospatial goods and services panel

Defence has established the Geospatial Goods and Services Standing Offer Panel (GeoPanel) to procure Geospatial goods, services and relevant emerging geospatial technologies from approved industry providers.

The GeoPanel provides the framework for Australian Defence Organisation and Defence Portfolio Agencies to collaborate with industry and identify innovative geospatial data in support of Australia’s defence and national interests.

The Director of the Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation (AGO), Tom Hamilton, said the GeoPanel gives Defence the opportunity to access geospatial goods and services from Australian and international providers.

“Geospatial data is a critical enabler for Defence,” he said. “Reliable data supports planning and conduct of Defence operations; ensures safety of navigation; and informs situational awareness, policy advice, and intelligence insights.

“Geospatial data allows the government to make rapid, well-informed decisions based on the best available understanding of the strategic environment.”

Through the GeoPanel, Defence can efficiently acquire a broad range of Geospatial goods and services across five categories of geospatial technologies. These include satellite, optical, and radar data; aerial imagery; light detection and ranging; hydrographic services; and professional services.

It is anticipated over the term of the GeoPanel, Defence Portfolio Agencies could procure goods and services valued between approximately $8 million and $20 million.

The GeoPanel initial term is for a five-year period, with extension and panel refresh options available to be exercised at the Commonwealth’s discretion.