On 19 January 2017 the Victorian Government initiated an independent review into the effectiveness of Victoria's electricity network safety framework, to be chaired by Dr Paul Grimes. The review will examine the safety framework applicable to the electricity network in Victoria and assess its effectiveness in achieving desired electricity network safety outcomes. It will review the design and adequacy of the safety regulatory obligations, incentives and other arrangements governing the safety of Victoria’s electricity network.
On 5 May 2017 the Minister announced an expansion to the review's terms of reference to include Victoria's gas network safety framework.
Issues paper (electricity)
On 28 April 2017 we provided a submission in response to the issues paper. Our submissions did not consider that the current economic regulatory framework presents a barrier to achieving acceptable network safety. We also consider that economic incentives can be used to promote appropriate service and efficiency outcomes.
Supplementary issues paper (gas)
On 5 June 2017 we made a submission about the Victorian gas safety framework. This was in response to an issues paper on the Victorian Government’s review of Victoria’s Electricity and Gas Network Safety Framework.
Interim report
An interim report was prepared by the Review and released on 31 October 2017. On 24 November we made a submission to the Review's Interim report.