Foreword

Foreword by Martin Ferguson, Minister for Resources and Energy and Minister for Tourism

The Australian pipeline industry plays an important part in the development of Australia’s energy infrastructure. The Australian Government recognises that providing the right policy settings for a dynamic, market-driven pipeline industry maximises the benefits for all Australians.

The past year has seen the Ministerial Council on Energy (MCE) continue to progress the development of Australia’s gas markets. An important feature of this work is the close collaboration with the gas industry on the reform agenda. In particular, I thank APIA representatives for their continued work within the Gas Market Leaders Group to progress a number of major policy initiatives including the Gas Statement of Opportunities (GSOO) and the gas Short Term Trading Market (STTM).

The inaugural publication of the GSOO was released in December 2009 and will assist gas market participants identify infrastructure investment opportunities and manage market positions. The STTM will commence in June 2010 and will promote economic efficiency by bringing increased price transparency and price signals to consumers and infrastructure investors.

The Australian Government has also supported the establishment of the Energy Pipelines Co-operative Research Centre (EPCRC). The establishment of this collaborative body, which includes APIA’s Research and Standards Committee, recognises the essential role gas pipelines play in the Australian economy.

Finally, I would like to congratulate the pipeline industry on its excellent health and safety record. I commend APIA’s Health and Safety Committee for its work and I look forward to continuing to work with representatives to develop industry standards that lead the world.

I thank APIA for its ongoing engagement with the Australian Government on policy development processes and I wish the organisation and its members all the very best for 2010.

Martin Ferguson AM MP
Minister for Resources and Energy