Report 11: 2018

WA Schools Public Private Partnership Project

Audit conclusion

Two-and-a-half years into the PPP contract, the build program is on track. So far, 4 primary schools and the first stage of a secondary school have opened on time, with the remaining schools and stages on schedule. However, the transition to school operations in early 2017 did not go smoothly because EduWest and DoE under-resourced this phase, primary school principals had limited input into fit-outs and there was inadequate communication and training about how the PPP model would work. This led to school dissatisfaction with early services. Better engagement with the secondary schools has minimised these issues.

The cost, length and uniqueness of this PPP mean DoE must manage it differently from its other schools, especially as contract costs will increase if changes are made to facilities or unforeseen equipment is added. While there is sound high-level governance and a good working relationship with EduWest, DoE does not have a contract management plan and audit or inspection program to adequately manage the contract and check service performance. DoE needs these contract management tools in place to get the best out of the PPP over the next 30 years.

The project has provided new school designs, construction techniques and processes for maintaining school facilities. The DoE has already adopted some design changes for its new primary schools. It has an opportunity to apply other project lessons such as different secondary school designs, construction methods and ways of maintaining facilities, to improve all school facilities and potentially reduce costs.

Page last updated: July 29, 2018

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