Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Competition and Consumer Amendment (Australian Energy Regulator Separation) Bill 2024; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Tuesday 4 February 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The debate concerned the separation of the Australian Energy Regulator from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to establish it as an independent Commonwealth entity. The Labor member supported the bill, arguing it resolved governance disconnects and aligned authority with responsibility for the regulator's growing workforce and budget. The Independent member raised concerns about the regulator's past effectiveness and questioned whether increased funding would translate to lower consumer prices or better enforcement of market rules. The debate concluded with the sitting suspended after these two speeches.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned and the sitting was suspended.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Graham Perrett (Moreton) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Perrett supported the bill, stating it addressed longstanding governance issues within the Australian Energy Regulator. Perrett argued that the regulator's growth from 15 to 400 staff and a budget increase from $6.5 million to over $95.6 million necessitated a standalone structure. Perrett explained that the legislation would align the regulator's authority with its accountability by making the board the accountable authority under the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013. Perrett noted that the reforms were backed by previous reviews and stakeholder consultations, aiming to streamline decision-making and remove dual ministerial responsibilities.