Procedures
Direct Award
Quick answer
A direct award is a contract awarded without open competition where the Procurement Act 2023 permits it (e.g. extreme urgency, repeat purchase). Buyers must publish a Transparency Notice in most cases.
Last updated: 18 May 2026
When can buyers direct award?
Grounds are narrow and fact-specific. Suppliers should monitor transparency notices to spot sole-source awards in their sector.
What does this mean for suppliers?
- Challenge windows exist via the PRU for serious breaches
- Incumbent suppliers: ensure renewals are genuinely covered by a valid ground
- Challengers: document market alternatives and publication failures
Common questions
What is Direct Award?
A direct award under Sections 41–43 of the Procurement Act 2023 lets a contracting authority award a contract without a full competition only where a statutory ground applies, with transparency via a Transparency Notice in most cases.
Is this still current after February 2025?
Yes under the Procurement Act 2023.