Major Projects

Toolkit

South Australia’s major projects offer huge opportunities. Regional businesses must understand project needs, values, and procurement processes to succeed.

Major projects across South Australia present a once-in-a-generation opportunity for regional businesses. These projects range from infrastructure and energy to mining and manufacturing, with supply chains worth billions of dollars over the coming decade.

To successfully win work with major projects, businesses need to understand not only how to tender, but how major projects think, what they value, how they manage risk, and how they choose suppliers.

Key Insights

  • Major projects prefer suppliers who are contract ready and project capable
  • Relationships often start before tenders are released
  • Reliability, safety, communication, and project management matter as much as pricing
  • Projects look for suppliers who understand their risk, safety, and reporting expectations

What They Look For

  • Proven experience with similar work
  • Strong safety and quality systems
  • Willingness to work under subcontracting arrangements
  • Regional presence and workforce
  • Cultural safety and Indigenous engagement
  • Risk awareness and contract delivery confidence

Major Projects 101

Understanding How Large Projects Work – and How You Can Fit In 

Major projects across infrastructure, energy, mining, and defence are complex, highly regulated, and risk-managed environments. For regional businesses, understanding the structure, processes, and mindset of these projects is critical for success.

What is a Major Project?

A major project typically:

  • Involves investment above $50 million
  • Operates under strict governance, reporting, and procurement processes
  • Has multiple layers of contractors (Tier 1, Tier 2, etc.)
  • Is subject to regulatory and community expectations, including local content targets

What Major Projects Look for in Suppliers

  • Safety systems and a strong WHS record
  • Project management skills – reporting, tracking, communication
  • Certifications (e.g. ISO, insurances, licences)
  • Financial stability and ability to scale
  • Cultural safety and regional presence
  • Understanding of procurement platforms (ICN, C-Res)

How to Prepare

  • Build early relationships – attend Meet the Buyer and info sessions
  • Prepare your capability statement
  • Understand payment terms and contract risk
  • Register with ICN Gateway and relevant platforms
  • Start with small wins – subcontracting or trial work
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