On 7 August 2025, the AER published a discussion paper commencing consultation on the Bulloo Interlink Pipeline’s greenfields incentive determination application. The discussion paper outlines how we will approach APA’s application, sets out the key issues for the assessment and invites submissions from stakeholders on these issues. 

Our assessment approach

In deciding whether to make a determination, we are required to consider the effect that regulating the pipeline will likely have on promoting access to pipeline services, the costs to an efficient service provider, efficient users and prospective users, and the likely costs of end users. 

In considering these effects, we must have regard to the National Gas Objective and the form of regulation factors. We must also have regard to the extent to which the form of regulation factors or competition to develop the pipeline will, or is likely to, pose an effective constraint on the exercise of market power over the operative period.  

Notice regarding calculation of time

On 6 August 2025, we issued a notice to APA Bulloo Interlink Pipeline Pty Ltd informing that pursuant to rule 11(2)(a) of the National Gas Rules, we have decided to disregard the period allowed for stakeholders to make public submissions on the Discussion Paper and the Draft Decision. 

The standard consultation periods, including the discussion paper consultation period (covering the period from 7 August 2025 to 28 August 2025, a total of 15 business days) and the draft decision consultation period (a total of 20 business days, currently anticipated to be commencing in October 2025), are to be excluded from the calculation of the statutory timeframe for making a greenfields incentive decision (6 months).