Guide to Buying at Western

Everything you need to know about buying goods and services at Western Sydney University - including when Procurement support is required, key things to consider, and links to helpful resources and templates.

How procurement works at Western

Western’s procurement approach is based on value and risk.

This means lower-value, low-risk purchases can often be managed directly by stakeholders, while Procurement continues to support:

• High-value purchases
• Higher-risk activities
• Complex or strategic procurements
• Activities requiring specialist procurement advice

Before you buy

Before starting a purchase, consider:

• Is there an existing supplier or contract available?
• Has funding approval been obtained?
• Does the purchase involve data, privacy or cyber security considerations?
• Is a contract or agreement required?
• Are there sustainability or modern slavery considerations?
• Have you allowed enough time for approvals and supplier onboarding?

Planning ahead helps avoid delays and reduces risk.

Sustainable Procurement

Western is committed to making procurement decisions that support positive social, ethical and environmental outcomes.

This includes consideration of:

• Modern slavery and human rights risks
• Indigenous businesses and social enterprises
• Environmental Sustainability and Scope 3 emissions reduction
• Prioritisation of Climate Active Certified goods and services
• Waste reduction and circular economy opportunities

Our Sustainable Procurement Framework provides practical guidance to support proportionate and meaningful sustainability considerations.

Need Procurement Support?

Procurement can assist with:

• High-value or high-risk purchases
• Market approaches and evaluations
• Supplier and contract management
• Procurement process and policy advice

Early engagement helps achieve better outcomes and reduces delays later in the process.

WesternNow General Enquiry | Procurement Process Request

Resources and guidance for Stakeholders (Staff Only Access)