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ENGG8114 – Contracts and Procurement

2026 – Session 1, In person-scheduled-weekday, North Ryde

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff
Viken Kortian
viken.kortian@mq.edu.au
Tutor
Hadi Rezaei Vandchali
hadi.rezaeivandchali@mq.edu.au
By appointment
Credit points Credit points
10
Prerequisites Prerequisites
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
Unit description Unit description

This unit provides students with learning modules on sourcing and procurement, structuring and commissioning of contracts to procure and deliver on supplies and services. Students will develop a working knowledge of contract administration and build a fundamental understanding of commercial contracts, sourcing and procurement. The unit is designed to cover major discipline areas focusing on the contracts, sourcing, and procurement sector. Additionally, the unit will cover management aspects of maintaining supply relationships that drive mutual benefit. The unit will be delivered with a range of learning activities such as case study analysis, lectures and small group teaching activities focusing industry standard document preparation. 

Learning in this unit enhances student understanding of global challenges identified by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • ULO1: Evaluate the commercial viability of projects and decide an appropriate procurement strategy for a particular project.
  • ULO2: Interpret the scope and meaning of contract documents for the delivery of projects.
  • ULO3: Analyse and assess tenders, articulate fundamental knowledge of contract law, and identify potential risks associated with the project.
  • ULO4: Conduct cost estimation and tendering processes from a Contractors perspective.
  • ULO5: Develop strategies to build and maintain sustainable supplier relationships. 

General Assessment Information

General Assessment Information 

Student Responsibilities

Be familiar with University policy and procedures and act in accordance with those policies and procedures.

It is the responsibility of the student to retain a copy of any work submitted. Students must provide these documents upon request. Copies should be retained until the end of the grade appeal period each term.

The student is to perform the required due diligence for their assessment grade and rectify as soon as possible upon finding any errors.

 

Late Submission 

 Late Submission Policy

  • 5% penalty per day: If you submit your assessment late, 5% of the total possible marks will be deducted for each day (including weekends), up to 7 days.

    • Example 1 (out of 100): If you score 85/100 but submit 20 hours late, you will lose 5 marks and receive 80/100.

    • Example 2 (out of 30): If you score 27/30 but submit 1 day late, you will lose 1.5 marks and receive 25.5/30.

  • After 7 days: Submissions more than 7 days late will receive a mark of 0.

  • Extensions:

    • Automatic short extension: Some assessments are eligible for automatic short extension. You can only apply for an automatic short extension before the due date.

    • Special Consideration: If you need more time due to serious issues and for any assessments that are not eligible for Short Extension, you must apply for Special Consideration.

Need help? Review the Special Consideration page HERE

 

 

Practical Component

Attendance at practical classes is mandatory prior to submitting the lab report. Any lab report submitted without attending the corresponding practical session will receive a grade of 0, even if it is submitted by the due date.

Students who are unable to attend a practical session must submit a special consideration request and have it approved in order for alternative arrangements to be organised.

 

Resubmission option

Resubmission of any assessment task is not allowed under any circumstances. 

 

Notifications

Formal notification of assessment tasks, grading rubrics, and due dates will be posted on iLearn. Although all reasonable measures to ensure the information is accurate, The University reserves the right to make changes without notice. Each student is responsible for checking iLearn for changes and updates.

 

Assignment submissions and plagiarism policies

All assignments and reports must be submitted electronically through iLearn (in pdf format). Submissions will undergo plagiarism checkers using the Turnitin software (where applicable) and any work deemed to have a 30% or higher similarity score may incur an academic penalty. For more details on the policies of academic penalties relating to academic honesty, please refer to the policies and procedures section below.

Submissions are expected to be typed set in a logical layout and sequence. Markers WILL NOT grade poorly organized or illegible scans or drafts. The expected workload includes the preparation of final copies and clear diagrams.

 

Grading and passing requirements for unit

For further details about grading, please refer below to the policies and procedures section.

In order to pass this unit, a student must obtain a mark of 50 or more for the unit (i.e. obtain a passing grade P/ CR/ D/ HD).

The unit will be graded according to the Macquarie University Grading policy. The following grades will be used according to the listed numerical range:

ASSESSMENT GRADES AND STATUS

GRADE

RANGE

STATUS ( ‘Standard Grade’ in AMIS)

DESCRIPTION

HD

85-100

Pass

Provides consistent evidence of deep and critical understanding in relation to the learning outcomes. There is substantial originality, insight, or creativity in identifying, generating, and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem-solving approaches; critical evaluation of problems, their solutions, and their implications; creativity in the application as appropriate to the program.

D

75-84

Pass

Provides evidence of integration and evaluation of critical ideas, principles, and theories, distinctive insight, and ability in applying relevant skills and concepts in relation to learning outcomes. There is a demonstration of frequent originality or creativity in defining and analyzing issues or problems and providing solutions; and the use of means of communication appropriate to the program and the audience.

CR

65-74

Pass

Provides evidence of learning that goes beyond replication of content knowledge or skills relevant to the learning outcomes. There is a demonstration of substantial understanding of fundamental concepts in the field of study and the ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; convincing argumentation with appropriate coherent justification; communication of ideas fluently and clearly in terms of the conventions of the program.

P

50-64

Pass

Provides sufficient evidence of the achievement of learning outcomes. There is a demonstration of understanding and application of fundamental concepts of the program; routine argumentation with acceptable justification; communication of information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the program. The learning attainment is considered satisfactory or adequate or competent or capable in relation to the specified outcomes.

F

0-49

Fail

Does not provide evidence of attainment of learning outcomes. There is missing or partial or superficial or faulty understanding and application of the fundamental concepts in the field of study; missing, undeveloped, inappropriate or confusing argumentation; incomplete, confusing, or lacking communication of ideas in ways that give little attention to the conventions of the program.

Final Examinations

Final examinations will typically take place at the end of the semester during the University examination period. For further information, please refer to the Examination Timetable website on www.mq.edu.au

 

If you receive special consideration for the final exam, a supplementary exam will be scheduled by the faculty during a supplementary exam period, typically about 3 to 4 weeks after the normal exam period. By making a special consideration application for the final exam you are declaring yourself available for a resit during the supplementary examination period and will not be eligible for a second special consideration approval based on pre-existing commitments. Please ensure you are familiar with the policy prior to submitting an application. Approved applicants will receive an individual notification one week prior to the exam with the exact date and time of their supplementary examination.

 

Assessment Tasks

Name Weighting Hurdle Due Groupwork/Individual Short Extension AI assisted?
Case study on procurement 20% No Week 9 Individual No Open AI
Group Project 30% No Week 7 Individual and Group No Open AI
Final project 50% No Week 13 Individual No Open AI

Case study on procurement

Assessment Type 1: Written Submission
Indicative Time on Task 2: 12 hours
Due: Week 9
Weighting: 20%
Groupwork/Individual: Individual
Short extension 3: No
AI assisted?: Open AI

Case study on procurement
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Evaluate the commercial viability of projects and decide an appropriate procurement strategy for a particular project.
  • Interpret the scope and meaning of contract documents for the delivery of projects.
  • Analyse and assess tenders, articulate fundamental knowledge of contract law, and identify potential risks associated with the project.

Group Project

Assessment Type 1: Professional task
Indicative Time on Task 2: 12 hours
Due: Week 7
Weighting: 30%
Groupwork/Individual: Individual and Group
Short extension 3: No
AI assisted?: Open AI

Group project based on procurement case scenario
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Evaluate the commercial viability of projects and decide an appropriate procurement strategy for a particular project.
  • Interpret the scope and meaning of contract documents for the delivery of projects.
  • Analyse and assess tenders, articulate fundamental knowledge of contract law, and identify potential risks associated with the project.
  • Conduct cost estimation and tendering processes from a Contractors perspective.
  • Develop strategies to build and maintain sustainable supplier relationships. 

Final project

Assessment Type 1: Professional task
Indicative Time on Task 2: 30 hours
Due: Week 13
Weighting: 50%
Groupwork/Individual: Individual
Short extension 3: No
AI assisted?: Open AI

Final project report based on Engineering procurement principles.
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Evaluate the commercial viability of projects and decide an appropriate procurement strategy for a particular project.
  • Interpret the scope and meaning of contract documents for the delivery of projects.
  • Analyse and assess tenders, articulate fundamental knowledge of contract law, and identify potential risks associated with the project.
  • Conduct cost estimation and tendering processes from a Contractors perspective.
  • Develop strategies to build and maintain sustainable supplier relationships. 

1 If you need help with your assignment, please contact:

  • the academic teaching staff in your unit for guidance in understanding or completing this type of assessment
  • the Writing Centre for academic skills support.

2 Indicative time-on-task is an estimate of the time required for completion of the assessment task and is subject to individual variation.

3 An automatic short extension is available for some assessments. Apply through the Service Connect Portal.

Delivery and Resources

Delivery and Resources

Text:      Procurement Principles and Management: Baily, Farmer, Crocker, Jessop, Jones

              Engineers Procurement Manual for Major Plant Equipment: Robert Leeser

Unit Schedule

Week

Lecture /Content / Topic

Chapter Ref

HBR Case Study

1

The Procurement function and its role in a business. Measurement of Procurement Success, KPI’s

Chapter 1

Bailey et al

Boeing Australia Assessing the merits of implementing an eProcurement System

2

Strategic Procurement and Supply Chain Management.

Chapter 2

Bailey et al

 

3

Price and total cost of ownership (TCO)

Chapter 9

Bailey et al

Meisterclean – Turning Supply chain into competitive advantage

4

Preparation of procurement requirements. Compiling the contract conditions, developing commercial terms. Preparing technical specifications

Ch 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9

Leeser

 

5

Selection of suppliers. Bidding process.

Ch 10, 11, &12

Leeser

Building Deep Supplier Relationships

6

Sourcing Strategies and Relationships

 

Assignment 1 due

Chapter 8

Bailey et al

 

7

Project Procurement and Risk

Chapter 11

Bailey et al

Boeing Strategic Initiative RM Supply Chain Risk

8

Contract Management

Chapter 19

Bailey et al

Within Slides

Video:

Procurement Disasters – UK 6.5 Billion Defence

9

Government Projects – Guest Lecturer

 

Case Study Submission

 

 

10

Quality Management

Chapter 5

Bailey et al

Quality Management in the oil industry: How BP greases its machinery for frictionless sourcing.

11

Inventory Management

Chapter 6

Bailey et al

 

12

Capital Procurement

 

Chapter 14

Bailey et al

 

13

Review

Assignment 2 due

 

 

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Students seeking more policy resources can visit Student Policies (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/policies). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.

To find other policies relating to Teaching and Learning, visit Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au) and use the search tool.

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/admin/other-resources/student-conduct

Results

Results published on platform other than eStudent, (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit connect.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au

Academic Integrity

At Macquarie, we believe academic integrity – honesty, respect, trust, responsibility, fairness and courage – is at the core of learning, teaching and research. We recognise that meeting the expectations required to complete your assessments can be challenging. So, we offer you a range of resources and services to help you reach your potential, including free online writing and maths support, academic skills development and wellbeing consultations.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

Academic Success

Academic Success provides resources to develop your English language proficiency, academic writing, and communication skills.

The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources. 

Student Services and Support

Macquarie University offers a range of Student Support Services including:

Student Enquiries

Got a question? Ask us via the Service Connect Portal, or contact Service Connect.

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/. 

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

Engineers Australia Competency Mapping

EA Competency Standard Unit Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Skill Base 1.1 Comprehensive, theory-based understanding of the underpinning fundamentals applicable to the engineering discipline. ULO1
1.2 Conceptual understanding of underpinning maths, analysis, statistics, computing. ULO1
1.3 In-depth understanding of specialist bodies of knowledge ULO1
1.4 Discernment of knowledge development and research directions ULO3
1.5 Knowledge of engineering design practice ULO1,ULO2
1.6 Understanding of scope, principles, norms, accountabilities of sustainable engineering practice.  
Engineering Application Ability 2.1 Application of established engineering methods to complex problem solving ULO1
2.2 Fluent application of engineering techniques, tools and resources. ULO3
2.3 Application of systematic engineering synthesis and design processes. ULO5
2.4 Application of systematic approaches to the conduct and management of engineering projects. ULO2
Professional and Personal Attributes 3.1 Ethical conduct and professional accountability. ULO2,ULO4
3.2 Effective oral and written communication in professional and lay domains. ULO5
3.3 Creative, innovative and pro-active demeanour. ULO5
3.4 Professional use and management of information.  
3.5 Orderly management of self, and professional conduct. ULO2
3.6 Effective team membership and team leadership ULO2

Unit information based on version 2026.02 of the Handbook