The Government is commissioning a review of the Territory's institutional arrangements for ACTEW.
ACTEW delivers water and sewerage services to the ACT and its region. It also holds the interests in both the energy retail and distribution partnerships that form the ActewAGL joint venture. Water, sewerage and some energy prices are set within the ACT by the Independent Competition Regulatory Commission (ICRC). There is a significant level of policy and operational interaction between ACTEW and ACT Government Directorates.
These arrangements have been in place for some years and this review is the opportunity to examine whether they continue to be appropriate and reflect best practice.
The review will examine, and provide recommendations on, potential approaches which could:
- improve the existing arrangements and structures (both legal and regulatory) under which ACTEW operates;
- enhance the process of setting specific goals and objectives for ACTEW, including the potential prioritisation of commercial, social and environmental objectives; and
- enhance communication and accountability mechanisms operating between ACTEW and ACT Government Directorates.
Should the review contemplate any changes to the structure of ACTEW Corporation Ltd the review should provide recommendations on the most appropriate entity to hold ACTEW's 50 per cent interests in the partnerships that form the ActewAGL joint venture.
This review does not, however, extend to reviewing the structure of the ActewAGL joint venture itself.
The review should have regard to, and may make comment on, all relevant legislation and competition policy principles.
Consultation: The review should seek the views of key stakeholders and other interested parties in the community. A public call for submissions would be appropriate to facilitate this outcome.