The University of the Sunshine Coast is a public Australian university and operates within a strong governance, financial, and procurement framework. As part of this framework, the University does not sign supplier credit application forms and does not establish trade credit accounts as standard practice.

How the University purchases and pays suppliers

The University conducts all purchasing through the issue of an official University Purchase Order (PO).

A Purchase Order:

• Is the University’s formal and authorised commitment to purchase goods or services
• Confirms approved scope, pricing, and value
• Is issued only after appropriate delegations, budget approval, and compliance checks
• Forms the contractual basis for invoicing and payment

Once a supplier submits a valid tax invoice that correctly references the Purchase Order, the University will process payment in accordance with its standard payment terms.

Goods or services supplied without an official Purchase Order are not authorised and may not be paid.

Why the University does not sign credit application forms

Supplier credit application forms are designed for private commercial trading arrangements and typically include terms such as:

• Open or rolling credit limits
• Supplier-defined contractual conditions
• Indemnities, guarantees, or variations to standard terms
• Commitments that bypass public-sector approval and delegation requirements

Instead, the Purchase Order, together with the University’s standard terms and conditions, or a separate agreement formally executed with the supplier, forms the sole contractual basis for the supply of goods and services.

This approach ensures:

• Financial accountability and transparency
• Compliance with public-sector governance obligations
• Clear authority and protection for both the supplier and the University
• Consistent and ethical procurement practices

Credit Facility — exception only

The University does not establish credit accounts as a standard practice.

Only in limited and exceptional circumstances, where there is a clear and demonstrable business requirement, may the University consider a trade credit arrangement. Any such arrangement:

• Is exception-based, not routine
• Requires prior executive approval in accordance with the University’s financial delegations and governance processes
• Must be supported by a documented business case and risk assessment
• Will be governed by University-approved contractual terms, not standard supplier credit application forms

Unless the University has formally confirmed otherwise in writing, suppliers should assume that:

• No trade credit account exists
• Credit application forms will not be signed
• An official Purchase Order is required before supply

Our values and commitment to suppliers

The University values integrity, community, and sustainability and is committed to ethical, transparent, and responsible procurement.

We work collaboratively with suppliers to:

• Ensure clarity of engagement and expectations
• Support fair and timely payment
• Build long-term relationships based on trust and accountability

While we cannot sign credit application forms, we actively support suppliers to engage with the University through clear purchasing and payment processes.

Further information

For more information about how the University procures goods and services view procurement information on the website. 

The University’s standard Purchase Order Terms and Conditions can also be accessed online.