To support the fair and equitable selection of Standards-related activities and projects that will be resourced by Standards Australia, a clear and agreed Prioritisation and Selection Process has been developed.

This process, which takes place twice a year, will also ensure Standards Australia’s funds and resources are allocated where they can deliver greatest benefit to the community and in a manner that allows Standards Australia to operate on a sustainable basis.

While Standards Australia would like to meet the expectations of all project proponents, it is important to understand that resources are finite and therefore the selection process is competitive. Selection will be based on the strength of the Net Benefit case; robustness of the project proposal; stakeholder consultation and support; and above all the availability of Standards Australia resources.

The Standards Australia Guide to the Project Prioritisation Process and Criteria is available to assist stakeholders in understanding the process, and to help proponents applying to have their project considered as a Standards Australia resourced Standards Development project.

The Guide was developed after considering more than 45 written submissions and numerous face to face comments from stakeholders at Councillor and Committee Chair briefing sessions around Australia focusing on the Prioritisation Discussion Paper released in February 2010.

Stakeholders interested in submitting a project proposal as part of the Prioritisation and Selection Process are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the process by reading the Guide.

The Standards Australia Pathways Guide is also available, providing guidance on the Standards Development pathways offered by Standards Australia.

Submitting proposals for the Prioritisation and Selection Process
Proponents interested in applying for Standards Australia resourcing are encouraged to consider their project/program of work and consult with relevant stakeholders about the priorities within their industry sector as part of developing proposals.

Proposals are submitted to Standards Australia before nominated dates to ensure adequate and equitable assessment of all proposals. This process will be conducted twice each year.

Standards Australia’s National Sector Managers are available to discuss options and assist with completing proposal forms.

The Externally Funded pathway for Standards Development remains in place, offering stakeholders customised solutions, greater choice in resourcing levels and accelerated project timeframes. While Externally Funded project proposals are subject to the same assessment requirements, this pathway is not part of the Prioritisation and Selection Process. Proposals for Externally Funded projects may be submitted to Standards Australia at any time throughout the year.

For more information on completing your proposal and to download a Proposal Form for Standards Development visit Proposing new Standards.

Assistance and Support
If you have any queries please check our Frequently Asked Questions, or if you require further information, please contact a National Sector Manager or Standards Australia’s Customer Information Service (CIS) by email or phone (1800 035 822).

For information on the next round of intakes, visit Proposing New Projects.