Type
Sector
Gas
Segment
Distribution
Transmission
Issue date
AER reference
AC 13/19

The AER today published an overview of reports submitted by gas distribution and transmission pipelines against the Annual Compliance Order for service providers of covered gas transmission and distribution pipelines.

Pipeline operators are required to report any non-compliance with the National Gas Law (NGL) and National Gas Rules (NGR). Jemena Gas Networks (JGN) was the only operator to have self-reported any compliance issues.

JGN reported instances of inadvertent disclosure of customer meter data because of a new IT system relating to customer transfer process. The AER sought the implementation of system improvements by JGN to prevent the risk of such events recurring.

JGN has implemented process improvements and has not reported further instances of non-compliance.

Background

The AER receives annual compliance reports from regulated gas transmission and distribution pipeline service providers. These reports are submitted in response to an Annual Compliance Order (Order) made by the AER in November 2008 under section 48 of the NGL.

Gas pipeline operators’ reporting requirements under the Order include:

  • the general compliance required for a service provider (such as not hindering access)
  • structural and operational separation arrangements (including ring-fencing requirements)
  • not disclosing confidential information, and
  • compliance with an access determination (if a party to an access dispute).

This reporting framework forms part of the AER’s compliance monitoring framework as well as informing its economic regulatory functions under section 27 of the NGL. The reports are also published to inform stakeholders and ensure transparency.

Any breaches reported by businesses are rectified in accordance with our Compliance and enforcement - Statement of approach.