The AER's Future of network regulation 2026 information paper takes a closer look at the regulatory environment for electricity networks in the National Electricity Market.
Our paper looks at the historical context for the current framework and includes the AER’s observations on how the electricity system and regulatory framework are evolving.
We ask whether 'what and how' we regulate still aligns with 'why' we regulate as the system changes.
The paper covers the main phases of electricity industry and regulatory reform, the rationale for regulation, the key features of the current approach, what is regulated in the NEM, and how electricity networks may evolve over time.
This work will inform the AER’s future approach to ensuring the regulatory framework remains fit for purpose and contributes to our engagement in broader reform processes, including the AEMC’s Electricity Network Regulation Review and relevant rule change processes.
