Under the NGR we may—on our own initiative or on application by a service provider—issue a direction that a single access arrangement be submitted for multiple networks. AGN has applied for a direction from us under rule 53 of the NGR to consolidate the access arrangements for its Victorian and Albury gas distribution networks as part of that review. This would mean that on 1 January 2017 AGN would submit a single access arrangement covering both networks, in place of the two separate arrangements that have applied to date.

Before a direction is given, we must consult on the proposed terms of the direction with AGN and other stakeholders. On 5 February 2016 we released a position paper seeking feedback from AGN and other stakeholders on whether and on what terms consolidation of the access arrangements for the Albury and Victorian networks should proceed.

AGN and other stakeholders were invited to make submissions on the position paper by 4 March 2016. One submission was received.

On 23 March 2016 the AER issued a direction to AGN, under rule 53 of the National Gas Rules, to consolidate the access arrangements for its Victorian and Albury gas networks from the commencement of the next access arrangement period.