This advice provided on the sponsorship of evaluation is relevant to industry consultants, product developers and Australian and New Zealand government agencies.

STEP 1. Submit your evaluation request to DSD using this sponsorship letter template. Industry should engage Australian or New Zealand government agencies for sponsorship.

The sponsorship letter serves three main purposes:

1. To provide a single sponsorship form for evaluation entry for DSD's record and tracking purposes;
2. To enable DSD phone and email contact with the sponsoring government agency for ongoing communication during the evaluation;
3. To provide DSD with some details on what the product is intended to be used for and ensure the scope of evaluation is appropriate for the product's intended use.

*Sponsorship letters are not limited to one per evaluation as additional sponsorship can increase an evaluation priority.

STEP 2. DSD establishes contact with the sponsoring government agency and the developer/vendor to understand the evaluation needs involved. This step is essential to ensure all stakeholders are engaged and informed of the expectations and timeframes involved in an evaluation.

The sponsorship letter is not:

1. An instant DSD acceptance of a product to enter evalaution;
2. A contract or commitment of the signatory or agency - sponsorship can be withdrawn anytime by notifying DSD;
3. A financial commitment to purchase the product.

If you would like further clarification or guidance, please contact DSD on assist@dsd.gov.au.

DSD will assist sponsoring government agencies who need clarification on how to answer the questions.

DSD will also assist product developers in understanding the evaluation process and sponsorship requirements.

Attached Documents:

Australian and New Zealand Government Sponsorship Letter Template (PDF 60Kb)