National Prequalification System for Non-Residential Buildings (NPS)

The National Prequalification Scheme (NPS) for non-residential government building projects valued at $50 million and above is currently under review by the Australasian Procurement and Construction Council (APCC). The review is assessing the NPS’s relevance, benefits, and effectiveness, and exploring opportunities for improvement to ensure the scheme continues to meet the needs of both industry and government.

Consultation for this review closed on 8 August 2025.

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NPS Guidelines, Application Forms & Reports

Recent Changes

​(1) NPS and Mutual Recognition are available to entities who have recently changed their ABN or ACN, with no change in key personnel. At the point of assessment, the entity will be asked for written evidence of material changes and an explanation as to the reason for ABN or ACN change. Applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. 2 years after the date of ABN or ACN change, only projects under the new entity will be assessed under the NPS.​

(2) To provide a pathway for contractors wishing to become NPS prequalified and are yet to have experience with a building contract over $50M however can demonstrate financial capability above $50M, may seek to be assessed in accord with the amended Guidelines – refer to Application Form, General Instructions. For further information on Financial Assessment Criteria, view section 3 in the Guidelines. 

(3) An NPS Application can be lodged with an Assessing Agency either in the jurisdiction where the head office is located, or where the contractor intends to bid for a tender over the value of $50 million. 

“The APCC is both an intelligence centre for its members, and an overall leader in advancing procurement”

What is the NPS? 

The National Prequalification System for Non-residential Building (NPS) aims to create certainty and consistency, and streamline the process of prequalification for contractors working in multiple jurisdictions. It applies to non-residential government building contracts where the construction cost estimate is $50 million and above in Participating Jurisdictions.

This process for mutual recognition of prequalification status for contractors across participating jurisdictions commenced on 1 January 2011.

Applicants should access the full set of NPS documents before undertaking their applications.