Commencement information
1. The whole of this instrument	1 July 2020.	1 July 2020

Water Charge (Infrastructure) Rules 2010

1 Rule 1

Omit “(Infrastructure)”.

2 Subrule 3(1)

Repeal the following definitions:

(a) definition of accredited agency;

(b) definition of accredited arrangements.

3 Subrule 3(1)

Insert:

Act means the Water Act 2007.

additional termination fee: see subrule 71(4).

aggregate revenue requirement, in relation to infrastructure services provided by a Part 6 operator, means the sum of revenue from infrastructure charges and government contributions that was forecast for the regulatory period at the time that the ACCC made the initial determination or approval of the charges under rule 29.

4 Subrule 3(1) (paragraph (a) of the definition of application period)

Omit “the commencement date”, substitute “12 January 2011”.

5 Subrule 3(1) (definition of applied provisions)

Repeal the definition.

6 Subrule 3(1) (definition of business day)

Repeal the definition, substitute:

business day does not include a Saturday or a Sunday and:

(a) in relation to an obligation of an infrastructure operator, does not include a day that is a public holiday in the place where the operator’s principal place of business is situated;

(b) in relation to the ACCC, does not include a day that is a public holiday in the Australian Capital Territory.

7 Subrule 3(1)

Insert:

charge application period:

(a) for a charge set out in a schedule of charges adopted by an infrastructure operator, in accordance with rule 11—see subrule 11(2);

(b) for a charge set out in a schedule of charges adopted by a person other than an infrastructure operator, in accordance with rule 12—see subrule 12(2).

8 Subrule 3(1)

Repeal the following definitions:

(a) definition of civil penalty;

(b) definition of commencement date.

9 Subrule 3(1)

Insert:

first regulatory period, for a Part 6 operator: see subrule 24A(3).

general termination fee: see subrule 71(4).

information request: see subrule 74(4).

infrastructure charge means a charge of a kind referred to in paragraph 91(1)(a), (b) or (d) of the Act other than:

(a) a fee to which rule 13 of the Water Market Rules 2009 applies; or

(b) a termination fee.

10 Subrule 3(1) (definition of initial period)

Repeal the definition.

11 Subrule 3(1) (definition of levy)

Repeal the definition, substitute:

levy includes impose or demand or cause to be imposed or demanded.

12 Subrule 3(1)

Insert:

planning and management charge means a charge of the kind referred to in paragraph 91(1)(c) of the Act that is determined by or on behalf of an agency of the Commonwealth or an agency of a State excluding charges determined by a local government body.

13 Subrule 3(1) (definition of regulated charge)

Repeal the definition.

14 Subrule 3(1) (definition of Regulator)

Repeal the definition.

15 Subrule 3(1) (definition of regulatory asset base)

Repeal the definition, substitute:

regulatory asset base means the value determined in accordance with Schedule 2.

16 Subrule 3(1)

Insert:

regulatory event means:

(a) a change to the regulatory requirements imposed on an infrastructure operator relating to the provision of an infrastructure service; or

(b) the determination or approval by the ACCC or by an agency of a State under a law of the State of regulated water charges incurred by an infrastructure operator;

but does not include a requirement to pay a fine, penalty or compensation in relation to a breach of any law.

17 Subrule 3(1) (definition of regulatory period)

Repeal the definition, substitute:

regulatory period, for a Part 6 operator, means the first regulatory period or a subsequent regulatory period, where:

(a) the first regulatory period for the operator begins on the regulatory start date for the operator; and

(b) each subsequent regulatory period begins when the previous one ends; and

(i) if the ACCC has set a length for the period under rule 24—that length; or

(ii) otherwise—3 years.

Note 1: If the operator ceases to be a Part 6 operator, the operator continues to be treated as one for the remainder of its current regulatory period, but has no further regulatory periods—see rule 23D.

Note 2: See the transition provision in rule 81 for the regulatory period for an infrastructure operator that was a Part 6 operator immediately before 1 July 2020.

18 Subrule 3(1)

Insert:

regulatory start date:

(a) for a Part 6 operator—see subrule 23C(11); or

(b) for a Part 7 operator—see subrule 45(1B).

Note 1: The regulatory start date for a Part 6 operator is the date from which Divisions 2, 3 and 4 of Part 6 will apply to the operator. See also subrule 30(2).

Note 2: The regulatory start date for a Part 7 operator is the date from which Division 2 of Part 7 will apply to the operator.

relevant tax means any tax payable by an infrastructure operator, other than:

(a) income tax and capital gains tax; or

(b) stamp duty, financial institutions duty and bank accounts debts tax; or

(d) any tax that replaces or is the equivalent of or similar to any of the taxes referred to in paragraphs (a) to (c) (including any State equivalent tax).

right of access means a right of access to an infrastructure operator’s water service infrastructure or to services provided in relation to that right or a part of that right, including a water delivery right and a right to the drainage of water through that infrastructure.

19 Subrule 3(1) (definition of schedule of charges)

Repeal the definition, substitute:

schedule of charges means:

(a) for an infrastructure operator—a schedule of charges adopted under subrule 11(1); or

(b) for a person other than an infrastructure operator—a schedule of charges adopted under subrule 12(1).

20 Subrule 3(1)

Repeal the following definitions:

(a) definition of State water resources;

(b) definition of surcharge.

21 Subrule 3(1)

Insert:

taxation event: an event that consists of:

(a) a change in a relevant tax, in the application or official interpretation of a relevant tax, in the rate of a relevant tax, or in the way a relevant tax is calculated; or

(b) the removal of a relevant tax; or

is a taxation event for an infrastructure operator if, as a consequence, the costs to the service provider of providing an infrastructure service are increased or decreased.

terminating customer means:

(a) a customer who terminates or surrenders the whole or a part of a right of access by notice in writing given to the infrastructure operator; or

(b) a customer whose right of access is terminated by the infrastructure operator:

(i) by notice in writing given in accordance with the contract or arrangement applicable to that right; and

(ii) on grounds that the customer is in breach of their obligations under the contract or arrangement.

termination fee: see rule 71.

termination information statement: see subrule 74(5).

22 Subrule 3(1) (definition of the Act)

Repeal the definition.

23 Subrule 3(1)

Insert:

trade has the same meaning as in the Basin Plan 2012.

Note: See subsections 1.07(2) and (3) of the Basin Plan 2012.

24 Subrule 3(1) (definition of transitional period)

Repeal the definition.

25 At the end of subrule 3(1)

Add:

Note 1: Section 146 of the Act provides that if the words ‘civil penalty’ and one or more amounts in penalty units (for example, ‘Civil Penalty: 200 penalty units’) are set out at the foot of a provision in the rules, the provision is a civil penalty provision for the purposes of the Act (see Division 4 of Part 8 of the Act).

Subsection 147(3) of the Act provides that the pecuniary penalty for a contravention of a civil penalty provision must not exceed:

(a) if the wrongdoer is an individual—the relevant amount specified for the civil penalty provision; or

(b) otherwise—an amount equal to 5 times the amount of the relevant amount specified for the civil penalty provision.

Note 2: Penalty unit is defined in section 4AA of the Crimes Act 1914.

26 Subrules 3(2) to (6)

Repeal the subrules, substitute:

(2) A reference in these Rules to a water access entitlement includes a reference to a perpetual or ongoing entitlement, by or under a law of a State, to a share of the Basin water resources as if the entitlement were a water access entitlement.

(3) In these Rules, where an infrastructure operator is required to give a copy of a document, such as its schedule of charges, to its customers:

(a) the relevant document may be given to any customer in electronic form; and

(b) the document may be sent in different forms, or by different mediums, to different customers; and

(c) if the document is sent by post or an electronic medium, it is taken to be given on the day that it is posted or otherwise sent.

Example: The relevant document may be provided by fax, email or text message, including by attaching the document to an email or referring, in an email or text message, the customer to a website where the document can be found.

27 Rule 4

Repeal the rule.

28 At the end of Part 1

Add:

6A Transfer or assignment of right of access does not constitute termination or surrender

To avoid doubt, a person who trades or assigns a right of access, or part of the right, to another person does not terminate or surrender the right, or part of the right, for the purposes of these Rules.

Note: This provision clarifies the effect of rules 70 and 71, which deal with circumstances in which termination fees are permitted. Trade has the same meaning as subsections 1.07(2) and (3) of the Basin Plan 2012—see subrule 3(1).

29 Part 2 (heading)

Repeal the heading, substitute:

Part 2—Conditions on infrastructure charges and planning and management charges, and exemptions relating to certain contracts

30 Rule 7

Repeal the rule, substitute:

7 Conditions applying to infrastructure charges and planning and management charges

Charges must be in accordance with, or exempt from appearing in, a schedule of charges

(1) A person must not levy an infrastructure charge or a planning and management charge unless the charge is:

(a) specified, for the circumstances in which it is levied, in a schedule of charges that is in effect for the person at the relevant time; or

(b) covered by subrule 11(7) (which deals with certain infrastructure charges).

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

Relevant time

(2) For an infrastructure charge, the relevant time is the time when the infrastructure services that gave rise to the charge were provided.

(3) For a planning and management charge, the relevant time is the time when the circumstances set out in the schedule of charges for incurring the charge are met.

Effect of retrospective provisions in a schedule of charges

(4) Paragraph (1)(a) is taken to be satisfied if:

(a) the charge is specified in a schedule of charges that came into effect for the person later than the relevant time; and

(b) the charge is specified as applying at the relevant time.

Note: Retrospective application of charges may occur if subrule 11(3) or (4) or 12(3) applies.

31 Subrule 8(2)

Repeal the subrule, substitute:

(2) Subject to rules 33 and 39 and Division 4 of Part 6, a Part 6 operator that has not been exempted under rule 23C must not, after the regulatory start date for the operator, levy an infrastructure charge relating to an infrastructure service provided by the operator to a customer unless:

(a) the operator’s infrastructure charges have been determined or approved in accordance with:

(i) Division 2 of Part 6; and

(ii) except in the case of the first year of a regulatory period—Division 3 of Part 6; and

(b) the infrastructure charge for that infrastructure service does not exceed the charge for that infrastructure service determined or approved in accordance with Division 2 or 3 of Part 6, as applicable.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

32 Subrule 8(3)

After “the application period”, insert “for the operator”.

33 Rule 9 (heading)

Omit “entered into before, on or after relevant date”.

34 Subrules 9(1) to (5)

Repeal the subrules, substitute.

(1) If:

(a) an infrastructure operator proposes to enter into a contract in writing for the provision of infrastructure services to a customer that specifies the infrastructure charges that will apply (whether directly or by specifying a formula by which they will be determined); and

(b) either:

(i) the customer believes, on reasonable grounds, that disclosure of the details of those charges would result in a material financial loss for, or material detriment to, the customer; or

(ii) the operator believes, on reasonable grounds, that disclosure of the details of those charges would result in a material financial loss for, or material detriment to, the operator;

the operator or the customer, or both the operator and customer, may apply in writing to the ACCC for an exemption from the requirement under rule 11 that the operator include the charges in its schedule of charges.

(2) An application must:

(a) be made before the contract is entered into; and

(b) include the reasons for the belief referred to in subparagraph (1)(b)(i) or (ii), as applicable.

(3) Where:

(a) the infrastructure operator proposes to enter into contracts in identical terms with more than one customer; and

(b) subparagraph (1)(b)(i) or (ii) applies in relation to each customer;

the applications may be combined in a single application.

Note: The combined application will need to specify each customer in relation to whom the exemption is applied for, and provide reasons for the belief referred to in subparagraph (1)(b)(i) or (ii) in relation to each customer.

(5) Before the ACCC makes a decision in relation to an application under this rule, the ACCC may, in writing, request the infrastructure operator or the customer to give the ACCC further information relating to the application within a period specified by the ACCC.

35 Subrule 9(7)

Omit “30 day period”, substitute “period of 30 business days”.

36 Paragraph 9(8)(a)

Omit “30 day period”, substitute “period of 30 business days”.

37 Subrules 9(9) and(10)

Repeal the subrules, substitute:

(9) The ACCC must refuse to grant the exemption if it is not satisfied that disclosure of details of the infrastructure charges under the proposed contract would have a material financial loss for, or material detriment to, the infrastructure operator or the customer.

(10) The ACCC must give notice in writing of its decision on an application under this rule to the customer and infrastructure operator and, if it refuses to grant the exemption, must include in the notice the reasons for its refusal.

38 Subrule 9(13)

Omit “an exemption has effect, or is granted,” (wherever occurring), substitute “an exemption is granted”.

39 After subrule 9(13)

Insert:

(13A) Despite subrule (13), if the ACCC grants an exemption under this rule in relation to an application made on or after 1 July 2020, the infrastructure operator must, within 12 months after the day on which the exemption is granted, include the following information in its schedule of charges:

(a) a statement that the exemption has been granted under this rule;

(b) the name of the customer or customers;

(d) the infrastructure service to which the charge exempt from disclosure relates.

40 Subrule 9(14) (definitions of material and adverse effect and relevant date)

Repeal the definitions.

41 After rule 9

Insert:

9A Infrastructure operator to pass through certain charges

Network operation charges

(1) If an infrastructure operator incurs network operation charges, the operator may recover the charges from its customers by means of one or more separate charges or as a component of general charges levied on customers.

(2) If an infrastructure operator levies separate charges under subrule (1), the separate charges must not recover in total more than the total amount of the network operation charges.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

Ancillary charges

(3) If an infrastructure operator incurs ancillary charges, the operator must recover the charges from its customers by means of one or more separate charges in accordance with this rule.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

(4) The charges levied under subrule (3) must, as far as practicable, recover the same total amount as the ancillary charges.

(5) A charge levied under subrule (3) must not be levied on the basis of the number of units of water delivery right or water drainage right held.

(6) A charge levied under subrule (3) must:

(a) as far as practicable—be levied on the same basis as the ancillary charges that are being recovered through it; and

(b) where that is not practicable—be levied on a basis that is reasonably similar to the basis on which the ancillary charges that are being recovered through it are levied.

Example: A volumetric charge incurred by an operator in relation to the water access entitlement held by the operator should be recovered through similar charges on its customers’ irrigation rights.

(7) Where the ancillary charge being recovered by a charge levied under subrule (3) is incurred as a direct result of the actions of a particular customer or customers, the charge under subrule (3) must, as far as practicable, be levied only on that customer or those customers.

3‑month period for adjustment of charges

(8) However, if:

(a) any separate charges levied under subrule (1) or (3), as set out in the operator’s current schedule of charges, satisfy the requirements of this rule; and

(b) there is a change in circumstances that would mean that the charges no longer satisfy those requirements;

the charges may continue to be levied in accordance with the current schedule of charges for a period of 3 months after the day on which the change in circumstances occurs.

Example: The amounts of several ancillary charges incurred by an infrastructure operator increase due to another infrastructure operator adopting a new schedule of charges, which has the effect that the charges previously levied by the operator to recover ancillary charges no longer recover the same total amount of all ancillary charges.

(9) In this rule:

ancillary charges means any infrastructure charges or planning and management charges levied on an infrastructure operator (taking account of any discounts) that are not network operation charges.

network operation charges means infrastructure charges and planning and management charges levied on an infrastructure operator (taking account of any discounts) on the basis of:

(a) water access rights held or used by the operator specifically for the purpose of meeting distribution losses; or

(b) infrastructure used by the operator to extract water from a watercourse or discharge water to a watercourse in the course of providing a service to the operator’s customers.

Example: Charges levied on off‑take works used by the operator to extract water from or deliver water to a natural watercourse.

42 Rule 10

Omit “After the transitional period, a member”, substitute “A member”.

43 Part 4

Repeal the Part, substitute:

Part 4—Schedule of charges

11 Requirements for a schedule of charges—infrastructure operator

(1) An infrastructure operator must adopt a schedule of charges that:

(a) sets out its infrastructure charges and planning and management charges in accordance with this rule and rule 13; and

(b) sets the date on which the schedule of charges comes into effect for the operator, which must not be earlier than the date of adoption.

Note 1: In order for an infrastructure operator to levy a charge (other than an exempt charge or other charge listed in subrule (7)), the charge must be in a schedule of charges that is in effect for the infrastructure operator at the relevant time—see rule 7.

Note 2: To come into effect, a schedule of charges must be adopted in accordance with this rule and include the information set out in rule 13. It must be published and distributed in accordance with rule 15. It remains in effect until a replacement schedule comes into effect—see subrule 11(5).

Note 3: For paragraph (b), the date is set under item 4 of the table in rule 13.

When individual charges may apply

(2) The period during which a charge applies (the charge application period for the charge) is the period that the schedule of charges is in effect for the person who levies the charge, unless a different charge application period is specified in the schedule of charges. Subject to subrules (3) and (4), the charge application period must not begin earlier than the date on which the schedule of charges comes into effect.

(3) If:

(a) an infrastructure charge or a planning and management charge in the schedule of charges is required to be determined or approved by another person who is a State Agency or the ACCC; and

(b) the determination or approval of the charges includes provisions relating to the dates when the charge applies:

any specification of the charge application period for the charge under subrule (2) must be in accordance with those provisions of the determination or approval.

(4) If the schedule of charges that is adopted differs from the schedule of charges that it replaces only in relation to charges that are:

(a) separate charges levied under subrule 9A(1); or

(b) charges levied under subrule 9A(3);

such a charge may be specified, under subrule (2), as applying not earlier than the date of application of the network operation charge or ancillary charge that caused the change in the charge.

Replacing one schedule of charges with another

(5) The schedule of charges ceases to be in effect for the infrastructure operator when another schedule of charges that has been adopted by the infrastructure operator comes into effect.

Schedule of charges must comply with rule 13

(6) Subject to subrules (7) and (8), the infrastructure operator contravenes this subrule if the schedule of charges does not include:

(a) for each infrastructure charge set out in the schedule—the information specified in items 1 and 2 of the table in rule 13; and

(b) for each planning and management charge set out in the schedule—the information specified in items 1 and 3 of that table; and

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

Charges for which information is not required

(7) The schedule of charges need not include the following:

(a) for a charge in relation to which an exemption has been granted under rule 9—details of the charge;

(b) for a discount on an infrastructure charge that is provided to an individual customer or customers for reasons of the customers’ hardship (for example, a natural disaster), or in recognition of a service disruption experienced by the customer (for example, a temporary channel closure)—the amount of the discount or any other information relating to that discount;

(c) for an infrastructure charge levied by the infrastructure operator in accordance with rule 9A to recover the amount of any infrastructure charge or planning and management charge incurred (but not determined) by the operator in relation to a transaction undertaken on behalf of a customer, such as a trade application charge—details of the charge;

(d) the details of an infrastructure charge to be levied in circumstances such that:

(i) the nature of the service is known, but:

(A) the information required for subparagraph (c)(i) of item 1 of the table in rule 13 cannot reasonably be determined; and

(B) subparagraph (c)(ii) of that item does not apply; or

(ii) the nature of the service is not known sufficiently early for it to be practicable to include the charge in the schedule of charges.

Note: For paragraph (a), information relating to the exemption is required—see subrule 9(13A).

(8) However, if an infrastructure operator levies an infrastructure charge for an infrastructure service to which paragraph (7)(d) applies, the operator must adopt a new schedule of charges that includes the details of that charge within 12 months after the infrastructure charge is levied.

12 Requirements for a schedule of charges—other person

(1) A person, other than an infrastructure operator, who determines or levies planning and management charges, or on whose behalf such charges are collected, may adopt a schedule of charges that:

(a) sets out the planning and management charges that may be levied, in accordance with this rule and rule 13; and

(b) sets the date on which the schedule of charges comes into effect for the person who levies the charges, which must not be earlier than the date of adoption.

Note 1: In order for a person other than an infrastructure operator to levy a planning or management charge, the charge must be in a schedule of charges that is in effect for the person at the relevant time—see rule 7.

Note 2: To come into effect, a schedule of charges must be adopted in accordance with this rule and include the information set out in rule 13. It must be published in accordance with rule 15. It remains in effect until a replacement schedule comes into effect—see subrule 12(4).

Note 3: For paragraph (b), the date is set under item 4 of the table in rule 13.

When individual charges may apply

(2) The period during which an individual charge in a schedule of charges applies (the charge application period for the charge) is the period that the schedule of charges is in effect for the person who levies the charge, unless a different charge application period is specified in the schedule of charges. Subject to subrule (3), the charge application period must not begin earlier than the date on which the schedule of charges comes into effect.

(3) If:

(a) the person who determines the charges:

(i) is not the person who levies the charges; and

(ii) is a State Agency; and

(b) the determination of the charges includes provisions relating to the dates when the charges apply;

any specification of the charge application period for the charge under subrule (2) must be in accordance with those provisions of the determination.

Replacing one schedule with another

(4) The schedule of charges ceases to be in effect for the person who levies the charges when another schedule of charges that has been adopted in accordance with this rule comes into effect for the person.

Schedule must comply with rule 13

(5) The person who adopts the schedule of charges contravenes this subrule if the schedule of charges does not include:

(a) the information specified in items 1 and 3 of the table in rule 13 in relation to each planning and management charge; and

(b) the information specified in item 4 of that table.

Note: Section 12 of the Act limits the types of agencies of the Commonwealth or of a State that can be liable to be subject to civil proceedings for a civil penalty or given an infringement notice, and exempts the Crown entirely.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

13 Content of schedule of charges

A schedule of charges adopted under subrule 11(1) or 12(1) must include the applicable information set out in the following table.

Item	Kind of charge	Information
1	For each infrastructure charge or planning and management charge	The following: (a) the name of the charge and, if the charge application period for the charge is not the same as the period that the schedule of charges is in effect for the person who levies the charge, its charge application period; (b) the circumstances in which the charge is payable, including, if applicable, the following: (i) the water resource, catchment or district, and the water resource plan or other plan, to which the charge relates; (ii) the class of person required to pay the charge; (iii) the class of water access right, irrigation right or water delivery right to which the charge relates; (c) either: (i) the amount of the charge or details of rates and all other details necessary to determine that amount; or (ii) for a charge that reflects the costs of physically connecting, or physically disconnecting a customer from the operator’s water service infrastructure—a statement that the charge will be determined at the time of the connection or disconnection; (d) details of any general discount or surcharge, including the circumstances under which the discount or surcharge applies (for example, a discount for early payment); (e) when the charge is payable, and if payable by instalments, the number of instalments and intervals at which the charge is payable; (f) if the charge is not determined by the operator or person adopting the schedule of charges—who determined the charge; (g) if the charge is not payable to the operator or person adopting the schedule of charges: (i) the name of the person to whom the charge is payable; and (ii) the name of the agency or person for whom the charge is being collected
2	For each infrastructure charge	The following: (a) a description of the infrastructure service to which the charge relates; (b) if the charge is covered by an exemption under rule 9—the information required to be included in the schedule by subrule 9(13A)
3	For each planning and management charge	The legislative, contractual or other authority for the charge
4	General information	The following: (a) the date on which the schedule of charges comes into effect (or will be taken to have come into effect) and a statement that this is the date from which each individual charge applies, unless a different date of application is specified; (b) a statement setting out the following: (i) the process used to determine the infrastructure charges or planning and management charges and how a person may participate in that process; (ii) how a person can make an enquiry or resolve a dispute in relation to regulated water charges; (iii) any generally available discounts, surcharges or hardship policies, if applicable; (iv) how the infrastructure operator has determined or calculated the infrastructure charges it levies to recover charges in accordance with rule 9A, if applicable; (v) any other information that is reasonably necessary or desirable to explain the charges to the customer

15 Distributing and publishing schedule of charges

Note: Documents may be given in electronic form and documents posted or sent electronically are taken to be given on the day they are posted or sent—see subrule 3(3).

Infrastructure operator—provision of schedule of charges to new customer or on request

(1) If a person becomes a customer of an infrastructure operator, the operator must give the person, within 10 business days after the day the operator first receives notice, or otherwise becomes aware, that the person is a customer, a copy of:

(a) its current schedule of charges; and

(b) if a schedule of charges that is not yet in effect has been given to existing customers in accordance with paragraph (3)(a) or (4)(a)—the new schedule of charges.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

(2) If a person gives an infrastructure operator a request in writing for details of its current infrastructure charges for infrastructure services provided to its customers, the operator must give the person, within 10 business days after the day the request is received, a copy of:

(a) its current schedule of charges; or

(b) if a new schedule of charges has been adopted but is not yet in effect—the new schedule of charges.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

Infrastructure operator—adoption of new schedule of charges

(3) If an infrastructure operator that satisfies subparagraph 23(b)(i) or (ii) (whether or not its infrastructure charges are determined or approved by a single State Agency under a law of the State) adopts a schedule of charges under subrule 11(1):

(a) the operator must give a copy of the schedule of charges to each of its customers at least 25 business days before the day the schedule of charges comes into effect; and

(b) if the operator has a website—the operator must publish the schedule of charges on a publicly accessible part of the operator’s website at least 25 business days before the day the schedule of charges comes into effect.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

(4) If an infrastructure operator of any other kind adopts a schedule of charges under subrule 11(1):

(a) the operator must give a copy of the schedule of charges to each of its customers at least 10 business days before the day the schedule of charges comes into effect; and

(b) if the operator has a website—the operator must publish the schedule of charges on a publicly accessible part of the operator’s website at least 10 business days before the day the schedule of charges comes into effect.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

Infrastructure operator—adoption of new schedule of charges updating rule 9A charges only

(5) For subrules (3) and (4), if the schedule of charges is one to which subrule 11(4) applies, the infrastructure operator:

(a) is taken to comply with paragraphs (3)(a) and (4)(a) if it gives a copy of the schedule of charges, or a notice setting out the details of the changes, to each customer with the next invoice it gives to the customer after adopting the schedule of charges; and

(b) is taken to comply with paragraphs (3)(b) and (4)(b) if it publishes the schedule of charges on a publicly accessible part of the operator’s website as soon as practicable after adopting the schedule of charges.

Person other than an infrastructure operator—adoption of schedule of charges under rule 12

(6) A person who adopts a schedule of charges under subrule 12(1) must, at least 25 business days before the day the schedule of charges comes into effect for the person who levies the charges:

(a) cause the schedule of charges to be published on a publicly accessible part of the person’s website, or a publicly accessible part of the website of:

(i) the person who determined the charge; or

(ii) the agency or person to whom the charge is payable; or

(iii) the agency or person on whose behalf the charges are collected; and

(b) ensure that the schedule of charges is made available at its principal place of business, or the principal place of business of:

(i) the person who determined the charge; or

(ii) the agency or person to whom the charge is payable; or

(iii) the agency or person on whose behalf the charges are collected.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

Where publication or distribution delayed by determination or approval requirements

(7) If:

(a) a schedule of charges adopted by a person includes charges that are required to be determined or approved by a State Agency or the ACCC; and

(b) the timing of the determination or approval of the charges prevents the person from performing the actions required by subrule (3), (4) or (6) within the specified times;

the person is taken to comply with the relevant subrule if the person performs the required actions as soon as practicable after the charges are determined or approved.

44 Rule 23

Repeal the rule, substitute:

23 Part 6 operators

An infrastructure operator is a Part 6 operator if:

(a) the operator is not required to have all its infrastructure charges determined or approved by a single State Agency under a law of the State in a way that is consistent with paragraph 29(2)(b); and

(b) the operator levies an infrastructure charge in relation to either:

(i) a bulk water service in respect of water access rights; or

(ii) infrastructure services in relation to the storage or delivery of water that is necessary to give effect to an arrangement for the sharing of water between more than one Basin State.

Note: Subparagraph (b)(i) would not normally apply to an off‑river infrastructure operator.

23A Part 6 operators and prospective Part 6 operators must notify ACCC

If an infrastructure operator:

(a) becomes aware that it has become a Part 6 operator; or

(b) becomes aware of a matter that may result in the operator becoming a Part 6 operator on a specified date;

the operator must notify the ACCC of that fact, or that matter, as soon as practicable after becoming so aware.

23B ACCC must notify Part 6 operators and prospective Part 6 operators of its view

If the ACCC:

(a) receives a notice under rule 23A; or

(b) otherwise becomes aware that an infrastructure operator is a Part 6 operator, or is likely to become one from a specified date;

the ACCC must:

(c) form a view as to whether the infrastructure operator is a Part 6 operator, or will become a Part 6 operator from a specified date; and

(d) notify the infrastructure operator of the ACCC’s view; and

(e) if the ACCC is of the view that the operator is, or will be, a Part 6 operator—advise the operator that the ACCC will decide whether the operator should be granted an exemption under rule 23C.

23C ACCC may exempt a Part 6 operator from requirements in this Part

(1) An infrastructure operator that is, or expects to become, a Part 6 operator may apply to the ACCC for an exemption under this rule.

(2) The ACCC may grant to an infrastructure operator a written exemption from the operation of the requirements of Divisions 2, 3 and 4:

(a) following an application made by an infrastructure operator; or

(b) if it has given the infrastructure operator a notice under rule 23B or paragraph 81(12)(b) that it is of the view that the operator is, or will be, a Part 6 operator.

(3) The ACCC may on its own initiative, by written notice, extend the period of an existing exemption if the ACCC continues to be satisfied as to the matters specified in subrule (4).

(4) The ACCC may grant the exemption only if the ACCC is satisfied that the application of those requirements would not materially contribute to the achievement of the Basin water charging objectives and principles set out in Schedule 2 to the Act.

(5) In making the decision, the ACCC must have regard to the following matters:

(a) the total volume of water access rights in relation to which bulk water services are provided by the operator, if applicable;

(b) the total volume of water subject to water sharing arrangements in relation to which the operator provides infrastructure services, if applicable;

(d) any preferences expressed by the operator’s customers to the ACCC;

(e) any views expressed by a State Agency to the ACCC;

(f) whether the relevant law of a State is being transitioned so that the operator’s infrastructure charges will at a future date be determined or approved by a single State Agency in a way that is consistent with paragraph 29(2)(b);

(g) the proportion of the infrastructure operator’s revenue to be recovered from infrastructure charges;

(h) any other matters that the ACCC considers relevant.

Note: For paragraph (f), once that is the case, paragraph 23(a) will cease to apply to the operator, and the operator will no longer be a Part 6 operator.

(6) The exemption may be:

(a) for a specified period; or

(b) for an unspecified period but subject to review at specified times.

(7) Before making the decision, the ACCC may undertake public consultation in relation to its proposed decision.

(8) Before making the decision, the ACCC may, in writing, request the operator to give the ACCC further information within a period specified by the ACCC in that request.

(9) If the ACCC fails to make a decision under this rule within 3 months after the day on which it received the application, or gave the notice under rule 23B or paragraph 81(12)(b), the ACCC is taken to have decided to grant the operator an exemption from the operation of Divisions 2, 3 and 4 for 3 years from the expiry of that 3 month period.

(10) If the ACCC decides not to grant the operator an exemption, the ACCC must:

(a) invite the views of the operator on the appropriate date from which Divisions 2, 3 and 4 should apply to the operator; and

(b) set that date.

(11) The date set in subrule (10) is the regulatory start date for the operator.

Note: The regulatory start date may be changed by the operation of subrule 30(3).

(12) The ACCC must notify the infrastructure operator as soon as practicable of:

(a) a decision under this rule (including a decision taken to have been made under subrule (9)); and

(b) if the ACCC does not grant the exemption—the regulatory start date for the operator.

23D Ceasing to be a Part 6 operator

(1) If an infrastructure operator that is a Part 6 operator:

(a) ceases to be a Part 6 operator; or

(b) becomes aware of a matter that may result in the operator ceasing to be a Part 6 operator on a specified date;

the operator must notify the ACCC of that fact, or that matter, as soon as practicable after becoming so aware.

(2) If a Part 6 operator ceases to be a Part 6 operator during a regulatory period for the operator, these Rules apply to the operator as if the operator continued to be a Part 6 operator for the remainder of that regulatory period.

Note 1: Rule 25 will not have any application to an operator that will not be a Part 6 operator after its current regulatory period.

Note 2: See also rule 81 for an operator that was a Part 6 operator immediately before 1 July 2020.

45 Rules 24 and 25

Repeal the rules, substitute:

24 Changing the length of a regulatory period

(1) The ACCC may set a new length, not less than 3 years and not more than 5 years, for:

(a) a specified future regulatory period of a Part 6 operator (by changing the end date of the specified future regulatory period); or

(b) all the regulatory periods following a specified future regulatory period of a Part 6 operator;

if:

(d) it is satisfied that the change is appropriate in the circumstances.

(2) If:

(a) a Part 6 operator is also a supplier of urban water services or infrastructure services in relation to non‑Basin water resources, the charges for which are determined by an agency of a State under a law of the State; and

(b) the charges are determined in respect of periods (the agency periods) that are not aligned with the regulatory periods of the operator; and

(c) the operator requests the ACCC to approve changes to its future regulatory periods in accordance with subrule (1) in order to align the future regulatory periods with the agency periods;

the ACCC must consider whether the changes requested are appropriate in the circumstances.

(3) Subrule (1) does not apply in relation to a regulatory period for which a draft determination or approval has been published under rule 28.

(4) If a period length approved under this rule is not a whole number of years, the remainder after all the whole years are completed is treated as a year for the purposes of this Division and Divisions 3 and 4.

24A Application for determination or approval of charges—first regulatory period

(1) This rule applies to an infrastructure operator that:

(a) has received a notice under rule 23B stating that the ACCC is of the view that the operator is, or will be, a Part 6 operator; and

(b) was subsequently refused an exemption under rule 23C, or was given an exemption that has now expired; and

(d) proposes to levy infrastructure charges during the first regulatory period for the operator.

Note: The process in this provision is for the initial approval of charges. After this process is completed, rule 25 or Division 3 as appropriate will apply.

(2) The infrastructure operator must, at least 15 months before the regulatory start date for the operator, apply in writing to the ACCC for determination or approval of its infrastructure charges under this Division in respect of each year of the first regulatory period for the operator.

(3) The first regulatory period is:

(a) if the ACCC has set a length for the operator’s regulatory period under rule 24—the period of that length beginning on the regulatory start date; or

(b) otherwise—the period of 3 years beginning on the regulatory start date.

(4) The application must include the information referred to in Schedule 1.

25 Application for determination or approval of charges—subsequent regulatory periods

(1) A Part 6 operator that proposes to levy infrastructure charges in a regulatory period (a subsequent regulatory period) after the first regulatory period must apply in writing to the ACCC for determination or approval of its infrastructure charges under this Division in respect of each year of the subsequent regulatory period.

(2) The application must be made no later than 15 months before the start of the subsequent regulatory period in respect of which the determination or approval relates.

(3) The application must include the information referred to in Schedule 1.

46 Rule 29 (heading)

Repeal the heading, substitute:

29 ACCC to determine or approve infrastructure charges

47 Subrule 29(1)

Omit “approve, or determine,”, substitute “determine or approve”.

48 Paragraph 29(2)(b)

Repeal the paragraph, substitute:

(b) that the forecast revenue from the charges is reasonably likely to meet, but not materially exceed, the prudent and efficient costs of providing the infrastructure services, less:

(i) any government contributions related to the provision of those infrastructure services; and

(ii) any amount reflecting a direction by a government forgoing a return on its share of capital in an infrastructure operator; and

(iii) any revenue (other than from infrastructure charges) derived from the water service infrastructure used to provide infrastructure services; and

(c) that the infrastructure charges contained in the application are otherwise consistent with the requirements in other provisions of these Rules.

Note: There are relevant provisions in other Parts as well as in Part 6.

49 Subrule 29(3)

Omit “paragraph (2)(b)”, substitute “paragraphs (2)(b) and (c)”.

50 After subrule 29(3)

Insert the following:

(3A) If the ACCC is satisfied that:

(a) there is sufficient uncertainty about the cost, timing, necessity, likelihood or feasibility of a capital expenditure project proposed by the Part 6 operator in its application; and

(b) the inclusion of the proposed capital expenditure project would have a material impact on the infrastructure charges to be determined or approved;

the infrastructure charges must be determined on the basis that funding the capital expenditure project would not be a prudent and efficient cost of providing the infrastructure services.

Note: The ACCC may otherwise assess the costs relating to proposed capital expenditure as not being prudent and efficient for the purposes of paragraph 29(2)(b)—see subrule 31(1A) and Division 4.

51 Subrule 29(4)

Omit “approving or determining”, substitute “determining or approving”.

52 Rule 30

Repeal the rule, substitute:

30 Period within which ACCC must determine or approve infrastructure charges

(1) The ACCC must, within the period ending on the day 30 business days before the start of the regulatory period in respect of which an application under rule 24A or 25 is made, determine or approve the infrastructure charges set out in the application and give written notice of its decision in accordance with rule 31.

(2) The period for the making of the decision under subrule (1) is extended, or further extended, by a period of 3 months if the ACCC, within the period or the extended period (as applicable):

(a) is unable to make a decision; and

(b) gives written notice to the applicant explaining why it has been unable to make the decision within the period.

(3) If the application relates to the first regulatory period for the operator, and the period for the making of the decision under subrule (1) is extended or further extended—the regulatory start date for the operator is changed to the day 30 business days after the end of the period as extended or further extended.

(4) As soon as practicable after the ACCC gives a notice under subrule (2), the ACCC must publish the notice on the ACCC’s website.

53 Rule 31 (heading)

Omit “approval or determination”, substitute “determination or approval”.

54 Subrule 31(1)

Omit “its approval or determination”, substitute “the ACCC’s determination or approval”.

55 After subrule 31(1)

Insert:

(1A) If the circumstances in subrule 29(3A) apply, the notice may also specify a capital expenditure project as a contingent project and set out the conditions that the operator must satisfy in relation to the contingent project before the operator may apply for a variation of a determination or approval of its infrastructure charges under Division 4.

56 Rule 32

Repeal the rule, substitute:

32 Effect of determination or approval under this Division

A determination or approval by the ACCC of infrastructure charges under this Division has effect as a determination or approval of infrastructure charges:

(a) in respect of the first year of the regulatory period to which the application relates; and

(b) in respect of each subsequent year of the regulatory period, subject to review and further determination or approval in accordance with Division 3.

57 Subrules 33(1) and (2)

Repeal the subrules.

58 Subrule 33(4)

Repeal the subrule, substitute:

(4) In this rule, specified period means the period ending on the later of:

(a) the day 6 months after the end of the preceding regulatory period; and

(b) if the period of 30 business days before the start of the regulatory period referred to in subrule 30(1) is extended or further extended under subrule 30(2)—the day when that period as extended or further extended ends.

59 Subrule 34(1)

Omit “as reviewed”, substitute “to be reviewed”.

60 Paragraph 34(2)(a)

Repeal the paragraph, substitute:

(a) the operator’s forecasts of demand for, or consumption of, infrastructure services for the year to which the application relates; and

(aa) an explanation of why the forecasts are different from those set out in the application made under rule 24A or 25, if applicable; and

61 After subrule 34(2)

Insert:

(3) An application must be made no later than 4 months before the start of the year of the regulatory period to which the determination or approval relates.

62 Subrule 37(1)

Repeal the subrule, substitute:

(1) Subject to subrule (2), the ACCC must, within the period ending on the day 30 business days before the start of the year to which the application relates, and after considering any submissions received before the date specified in the notice under paragraph 36(b), determine or approve the infrastructure charges in respect of the year to which the application relates.

63 Paragraphs 37(2)(a) and (b)

Repeal the paragraphs, substitute:

(a) the changes in the demand or consumption forecasts set out in the application under rule 34 from those used in the determination or approval of infrastructure charges under Division 2; and

(b) price stability; and

64 Subrule 37(4)

Repeal the subrule.

65 Paragraph 37(5)(a)

Repeal the paragraph, substitute:

(a) is unable to make a decision within the period mentioned in subrule (1) or, if that period is extended, the period as extended; and

66 Subrule 39(1)

Repeal the subrule.

67 Paragraph 39(3)(b)

Omit “of 3 months”.

68 Rule 40 (heading)

Omit “Regulator may vary”, substitute “Operator may apply for variation of”.

69 Paragraph 40(1)(b)

Before “the operator”, insert “for an event other than a taxation event or regulatory event—”.

70 Subparagraph 40(2)(c)(ii)

Repeal the subparagraph, substitute:

(ii) whether that amount is likely to exceed:

(A) for a taxation event or a regulatory event—1% of the aggregate revenue requirement; and

(B) otherwise—3% of the aggregate revenue requirement; and

71 Paragraph 40(2)(d)

Omit “reliability and safety”, substitute “reliability or safety”.

72 At the end of rule 40

Add:

(3) A Part 6 operator may also apply in writing to the ACCC for a variation of the determination or approval made under Division 2 or 3 (or, if previously varied under this Division, as so varied) if the infrastructure operator is of the view that the conditions specified under subrule 31(1A) in relation to a contingent project have been satisfied.

(4) An application made under subrule (3) must set out:

(a) the reasons for the operator’s view that the conditions in subrule 31(1A) have been satisfied; and

(b) the total amount that the operator anticipates will be required during the remainder of the regulatory period to meet the prudent and efficient costs of delivering the contingent project; and

(c) the proportion of the costs of the contingent project that the operator seeks to recover through infrastructure charges; and

(d) the infrastructure charges the operator is seeking to vary and the amount of that variation.

73 Subrule 43(1)

Omit “regulated charges under Division 2 or 3”, substitute “infrastructure charges”.

74 Subrule 43(5)

Repeal the subrule, substitute:

(5) The ACCC must not, in relation to an application made under subrule 40(1), vary a determination or approval of infrastructure charges under this Division unless the ACCC is satisfied:

(a) as to the matters relating to the event referred to in paragraphs 40(1)(a) and (b) as set out in the application; and

(b) that:

(i) the total amount required during the remainder of the regulatory period to rectify the material and adverse effects of the event exceeds:

(A) for a taxation event or a regulatory event—1% of the aggregate revenue requirement;

(B) otherwise—3% of the aggregate revenue requirement; and

(ii) it is reasonably likely that the total expenditure during the remaining part of the regulatory period is likely to exceed the total forecast expenditure for that remaining part; and

(c) that the Part 6 operator has demonstrated that it is not able to reduce the operator’s expenditure to avoid the consequences referred to in paragraph (b) without materially and adversely affecting the reliability or safety of the operator’s water service infrastructure or the operator’s ability to comply with any relevant regulatory or legislative obligations; and

(d) as to the matters set out in paragraphs 29(2)(b) and (c).

(6) The ACCC must not, in relation to an application made under subrule 40(3), vary a determination or approval of infrastructure charges under this Division unless the ACCC is satisfied:

(a) that the conditions specified under subrule 31(1A) have been satisfied; and

(b) that the contingent project is prudent and efficient; and

(7) The ACCC must, if varying a determination or approval of infrastructure charges under this rule, decide:

(a) each infrastructure charge to be varied and the amount of the variation; and

(b) the date from which each varied charge will apply, which must not be earlier than the next year of the regulatory period.

75 After rule 43

Insert the following:

43A Variation of determination or approval by ACCC in response to certain regulatory or taxation events

(1) The ACCC may, on its own initiative, vary a determination or approval of an infrastructure operator’s infrastructure charges if it is satisfied that a regulatory event or taxation event provides a benefit to the infrastructure operator of more than 1% of the operator’s aggregate revenue requirement.

(2) Before varying the determination or approval, the ACCC must give the infrastructure operator written notice of the ACCC’s intention to vary the determination or approval.

(3) The notice must:

(a) identify the regulatory event or taxation event giving rise to the intended variation; and

(b) set out the estimated amount for the proposed variation of the operator’s infrastructure charges; and

(4) The ACCC must not, in relation to an application made under subrule 40(3), vary a determination or approval of infrastructure charges unless the ACCC is satisfied as to the matters set out in paragraphs 29(2)(b) and (c).

(5) The ACCC must, if varying a determination or approval of infrastructure charges under this rule, decide:

(a) each infrastructure charge to be varied and the amount of the variation; and

(b) the date from which each varied charge will apply, which must not be earlier than the next year of the regulatory period.

76 Rule 45 (heading)

Repeal the heading, substitute:

45 Part 7 operators

77 Subrule 45(1)

Repeal the subrule, substitute:

(1) An infrastructure operator becomes a Part 7 operator if:

(a) the operator is not a Part 6 operator; and

(b) the operator is a member owned operator; and

(c) the sum of the maximum volume of water from managed water resources in respect of which the operator provides infrastructure services in relation to all of the following is more than 10 gigalitres:

(i) water access entitlements held by the operator (otherwise than for the purpose of providing infrastructure services to customers who hold water access entitlements to that water);

(ii) water access entitlements held by the customers of the operator;

(iii) water access entitlements held by the owner (not being the operator) of the water service infrastructure operated by the operator; and

(d) the operator has made a distribution to all its related customers at any time after 12 January 2011.

Note: In subrule 45(1) the maximum volume of water refers to that held under water access entitlements.

(1A) If a Part 7 operator makes, or proposes to make, an application for the determination or approval of regulated charges under Division 2, the ACCC must:

(a) invite the views of the operator on the appropriate date from which Division 2 should apply to the operator; and

(b) set that date.

(1B) The date set in subrule (1A) is the regulatory start date for the operator.

78 At the end of subparagraph 45(2)(a)(iv)

Add “and”.

79 Subrule 45(2)

Omit “a member owned operator”, substitute “an infrastructure operator”.

80 Subrule 45(3)

Repeal the subrule, substitute:

(3) An infrastructure operator ceases to be a Part 7 operator at the earliest of the following times:

(a) when the operator ceases to be a member owned operator;

(b) when paragraph (1)(c) stops applying to the operator;

(d) upon the expiration of 3 years after the regulatory start date for the operator.

81 Rule 52

Repeal the rule, substitute:

52 ACCC to publish submissions

Where the ACCC receives a submission in response to an invitation under Part 6 or 7, the ACCC must, subject to this Division, publish the submission on the ACCC’s website as soon as practicable.

82 Subrule 53(3)

Repeal the subrule, substitute:

(3) In this rule, application includes further information given by the applicant at the request of the ACCC under rule 23C, 26, 35, 41 or 47.

83 Subrule 54(5)

Repeal the subrule, substitute:

(5) In this rule, application includes further information given by the applicant at the request of the ACCC under rule 23C, 26, 35, 41 or 47.

84 Rule 55

Repeal the rule, substitute:

55 Exempt contracts

If, under rule 9, an exemption has effect, or is granted, in respect of a contract between an infrastructure operator and a customer, the ACCC must not publish any information to which the exemption relates other than:

(a) in relation to an exemption in effect, or applied for, before 1 July 2020—the names of the parties to the contract and the date on which the exemption was granted; and

(b) in relation to an exemption applied for on or after 1 July 2020—the information specified in subrule 9(13A).

85 Part 9

Repeal the Part, substitute:

Part 10—Termination fees

Division 1—Certain fees prohibited

70 Prohibition of certain fees and charges

(1) An infrastructure operator must not levy a fee, charge or payment of any kind for or in respect of the termination or surrender of the whole or a part of a right of access.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

(2) Subrule (1) does not apply to:

(a) fees authorised under the Water Market Rules 2009; or

(b) a termination fee.

(3) Where:

(a) a person’s right of access has been terminated or surrendered in whole or in part; and

(b) the person has paid the termination fee (if any) payable under rule 71 to the infrastructure operator;

the operator must not levy, and the person is not liable to pay, any fee, charge or other payment in relation to the right, or the part of the right, that has been terminated or surrendered in respect of a financial year commencing after the termination or surrender.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

Division 2—Termination fees

71 Termination fee may be levied in certain circumstances

(1) A fee levied in accordance with this rule is a termination fee.

(2) An infrastructure operator may levy a termination fee if a person who holds a right of access terminates or surrenders the whole or any part of that right by notice in writing given to the operator, and:

(a) before the person gave the notice, the operator had given the person a termination information statement in relation to the right, or the part of the right, being terminated or surrendered within 6 months before:

(i) if the notice specified a future date for the termination or surrender to take effect—the specified date; or

(ii) otherwise—the date of the notice; or

(b) all of the following apply:

(i) the notice specified a date for the termination or surrender to take effect that was more than 6 months after the date of the notice;

(ii) on receiving the notice, the operator gave the person a termination information statement that included a statement in accordance with paragraph 74(5)(e);

(iii) the person has confirmed that the person wishes to proceed with the termination or surrender; or

(i) neither paragraph (a) nor (b) applies;

(ii) on receiving the notice, the operator gave the person a termination information statement;

(iii) the person has confirmed that the person wishes to proceed with the termination or surrender.

(3) An infrastructure operator may also levy a termination fee if the operator, by notice in writing given to a person who holds a right of access, terminates the whole or any part of that right in accordance with a contract applicable to the right on the grounds that an act or omission by the person is in breach of the person’s obligations under that contract (other than the act of trading the whole or a part of a water access right).

(4) A termination fee consists of one or both of:

(a) a general termination fee; and

(b) an additional termination fee.

Maximum general termination fee

(5) If paragraph (2)(a) or (c) applies, the general termination fee must not exceed the general termination fee set out in the termination information statement.

(6) If paragraph (2)(b) applies, the general termination fee must not exceed the maximum amount set by rule 72, calculated using infrastructure charges specified in the schedule of charges in effect at the time of the termination or surrender.

(7) If subrule (3) applies, the general termination fee must not exceed the maximum amount set by rule 72.

Maximum additional termination fee

(8) The additional termination fee:

(a) may be imposed only if such a fee has been approved under rule 73; and

(b) must not exceed the fee approved.

Exceptions to subrules (2) and (3)

(9) Subrules (2) and (3) do not apply to an infrastructure operator if:

(a) both of the following apply:

(i) the holder of the right of access is not liable to pay charges to the operator in respect of the right;

(ii) a fee in respect of the termination or surrender of the right or the part of the right is not specified in any contract or arrangement between the holder and the operator; or

(b) both of the following apply:

(i) the holder of the right of access is provided by the operator with a service for the storage of water using the operator’s water service infrastructure, in addition to the service for the delivery of water or drainage of water;

(ii) the charges for the service for the storage of water are included in the charges in respect of the right of access.

72 Calculation of maximum general termination fee

(1) For the purposes of subrules 71(6) and (7), the maximum amount for a general termination fee is the lesser of the following:

(a) the amount calculated in accordance with subrule (2);

(b) if the fee for the termination or surrender of a right of access or a part of a right of access is provided for in a contract or arrangement between the operator and the holder of the right—the fee determined in accordance with the contract.

Note: The fee may be lower than the maximum calculated in accordance with this rule.

(2) For the purposes of paragraph (1)(a), the amount is to be determined in accordance with the formula:

where:

A is the sum of the amounts, for a full financial year, of:

(a) the amount of each infrastructure charge payable per unit of water delivery right held multiplied by the number of units of water delivery right being terminated or surrendered; and

(b) the amount of each infrastructure charge payable per unit of water drainage right held multiplied by the number of units of water drainage right being terminated or surrendered.

B relates to dedicated infrastructure that is used exclusively by the terminating customer and will no longer be used by the customer after the termination or surrender, and is:

(a) if there is no separate charge for that infrastructure—zero; and

(b) if there is a separate charge for that infrastructure—the lesser of:

(i) 10 × C; and

(ii) D;

where:

C is the amount of the separate charge for that infrastructure, for a full financial year.

D is a reasonable estimate of the total cost of the dedicated infrastructure, net of a reasonable estimate of any contribution towards that cost made by the terminating customer, whether via direct contribution (for example, a lump sum payment) or via the payment of the separate infrastructure charge.

Note: B is zero unless the infrastructure operator levies a separate infrastructure charge on a customer for infrastructure that is used exclusively by the terminating customer. Because X is a maximum, B need not be calculated if the operator does not wish to levy a fee greater than M × A.

M, the termination fee multiple, is:

(a) if the infrastructure operator does not allow for the trade of a water delivery right of the kind applicable to the right of access that the customer wishes to terminate—1; or

(b) otherwise—10.

X is the amount for paragraph (1)(a).

(3) When calculating A, C and D, the following must be excluded:

(a) any amount in respect of a service for the storage of water;

(b) any amount of GST;

(c) any charge that reflects the costs of physically connecting, or physically disconnecting, the customer from the operator’s water services infrastructure;

(d) if a fee payable under a contract is approved under rule 73—any amount payable under the contract in respect of the recovery of expenditure on capital works relating to the operator’s water services.

(4) In calculating A and C, subject to subrule (5), the relevant infrastructure charges are those specified in the schedule of charges that is in effect on the following dates:

(a) if the calculation is in relation to an amount of a general termination fee that will be specified in a termination information statement under rule 74—the date the information request is received;

(b) if the calculation is for the purposes of subrule 71(6)—the date of the termination or surrender;

(c) if the calculation is for the purposes of subrule 71(7)—the date the operator gives the notice of termination to the terminating customer.

Note 1: Subrule 71(6) relates to a termination or surrender taking effect on a date that was specified in the notice and is more than 6 months after the date of the notice.

Note 2: Subrule 71(7) relates to a termination by the operator because of a breach of contract by the customer.

(5) However, if:

(a) paragraph (4)(a) applies; and

(b) a different schedule of charges had been in effect for the operator on the day that is 25 business days before the information request was received; and

the relevant infrastructure charges are those specified in that earlier schedule of charges.

(6) Despite subrule (1), if GST is payable in respect of a taxable supply relating to the termination or surrender of the whole or a part of a right of access:

(a) the termination fee levied by the infrastructure operator may be increased by an amount not exceeding the GST payable in respect of that taxable supply; and

(b) the fee determined in accordance with a contract referred to in paragraph (1)(b) may be increased by an amount not exceeding the GST payable in respect of that taxable supply.

73 Approval of additional fee payable under certain contracts relating to capital works

(1) This rule applies if there is a contract between an infrastructure operator and one or more holders of rights of access involving the following:

(a) the carrying out, within 5 years after the day on which the contract was entered into, of capital works relating to the operator’s water service infrastructure;

(b) the payment, by a terminating customer, of a fee relating to the recovery of that capital expenditure.

(2) A party to the contract may, within 3 months after the day on which the contract was entered into, apply to the ACCC for approval of that fee as a fee payable by each terminating customer as an additional termination fee for the purposes of rule 71.

(3) If:

(a) an application is made to the ACCC for approval of the fee as determined in accordance with the contract; and

(b) the ACCC is satisfied that the contract:

(i) relates to, or is made in anticipation of, the carrying out by the infrastructure operator, within 5 years after the contract is entered into, of capital works relating to the operator’s water service infrastructure; and

(ii) provides for fees payable for access to the operator’s water service infrastructure by the holders of rights of access that reasonably relate to the recovery by the operator of expenditure on those capital works in an amount not exceeding the actual, or a reasonable estimate of, expenditure by the operator; and

(iii) provides for a fee payable to the operator by a terminating customer that was agreed by each party to the contract in the course of fair and reasonable negotiation, is clearly stated, and is not subject to variation without the agreement of the holders of the rights of access; and

(c) the ACCC is satisfied that the operator advised the holders of rights of access who are parties to the contract of the general effect of these Rules; and

(d) the ACCC, in accordance with this rule, and having regard to the water charging objectives and principles, approves the fee referred to in subparagraph (b)(iii);

the fee is payable by each terminating customer.

(4) If a person makes an application to the ACCC for approval of a fee determined in accordance with the contract and gives the ACCC:

(a) a copy of the contract; and

(b) the contact details of the parties to the contract; and

(c) such details of contracts entered into, and arrangements made, for the carrying out of capital works relating to the infrastructure operator’s water service infrastructure within the period referred to in subparagraph (3)(b)(i) as are sufficient to confirm that the works have been, are being or are to be carried out; and

(d) any further information requested by the ACCC;

the ACCC:

(e) must decide whether or not to approve the fee; and

(f) must give notice in writing of its decision to each of the parties to the contract; and

(g) if it decides not to approve the fee, must include in the notice under paragraph (f) the reasons for refusing approval.

(5) If the ACCC does not make a decision under subrule (4) within a period of 30 business days after the day it receives an application under subrule (1), the ACCC is taken to have made a decision, at the end of that period, to approve the fee and to have given notice of the decision under paragraph (4)(f).

(6) In calculating a period of 30 business days referred to in subrule (5), disregard, if the ACCC has requested further information in relation to the application, a day during any part of which the request, or any part of the request, remains unfulfilled.

(7) If the ACCC:

(a) is unable to make a decision within the period of 30 business days referred to in subrule (5); and

(b) within that period, gives written notice to the person who makes an application under subrule (1) explaining why the ACCC has been unable to make a decision on the fee within that period of 30 business days;

the period of 30 business days referred to in subrule (5) is extended by a further period of 30 business days.

74 Infrastructure operator to give termination information statements

Requirement to give termination information statements

(1) Subject to subrule (3), if an infrastructure operator receives a written information request from a customer, the operator must give the customer a termination information statement within 25 business days after the day on which it received the request.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

(2) Subject to subrule (3), if an infrastructure operator receives an oral information request from a customer, the operator must either:

(a) inform the customer as soon as practicable that the operator will give the customer a termination information statement on receiving a written information request; or

(b) give the customer a termination information statement, within 25 business days after the day on which the operator received the oral request.

Civil penalty: 200 penalty units.

(3) An infrastructure operator is not required to give a customer a termination information statement in response to an information request if the operator has already given the customer a termination information statement in relation to the right of access, or the specified part of the right of access, within 6 months before:

(a) if the information request:

(i) is a notice that satisfies paragraph (4)(b); and

(ii) specifies a future date for the termination or surrender to take effect;

—that date; or

(b) otherwise—the date of the request.

Meaning of information request

(4) An information request is:

(a) a request from a customer for information on the termination fee that would apply if the customer were to terminate or surrender the whole or a specified part of a right of access; or

(b) notice from a customer of the customer’s intention to terminate or surrender the whole or a specified part of a right of access, including a notice that terminates or surrenders the right, or the specified part of the right, for the purposes of subrule 71(2).

Meaning of termination information statement

(5) A termination information statement is a statement by an infrastructure operator, in writing, that sets out, or includes, the following:

(a) the amount of each of the following that would be payable to the operator by a person if the whole or a part of the person’s right of access were terminated or surrendered within the period of 6 months after the day the statement is given to the person:

(i) the general termination fee;

(ii) any additional termination fee;

(iii) any disconnection fee referred to in rule 76 and known at the time the statement is given or, if it is not practicable to know the fee at that time, an estimate of the amount of such a fee;

(b) how the fees covered by paragraph (a) have been calculated or estimated;

(c) whether the person may trade a water delivery right relevant to the right of access referred to in the information request together with a copy of any rules governing the trade of that water delivery right or a website where such rules can be found;

(d) a statement that the amount of the general termination fee is valid for the period of 6 months after the day on which the statement is given to the person;

(e) if the statement relates to an information request that is a notice that terminates or surrenders the whole or any part of a right for the purposes of subrule 71(2) and specifies a future date for the termination or surrender to take effect (the termination date) that is more than 6 months after the date of the notice—a statement that, if the person confirms that the person wishes to proceed with the termination or surrender, the general termination fee may be calculated on the basis of the schedule of charges in effect on the termination date, and may therefore be higher than the amount set out under subparagraph (a)(i).

Note 1: For subparagraph (a)(ii), if the infrastructure operator has not yet received the relevant approval under rule 73, the operator may include the amount that is expected to apply, with a statement that this fee is subject to approval by the ACCC under that rule.

Note 2: For paragraph (e), if a termination information statement is given to a person in circumstances to which paragraph 71(2)(b) or (c) applies, the operator must not levy a termination fee unless the person confirms that the person wishes to proceed with the termination or surrender.

Note 3: For the maximum amounts that may be levied as general termination fees or additional termination fees, see subrules 71(5) to (8).

75 Liability to pay termination fee

A person must pay a termination fee (if any) levied by an infrastructure operator on the person in accordance with rule 71.

Division 3—Disconnection fees

76 Disconnection fee

(1) Subject to subrule (2), nothing in these Rules prevents an infrastructure operator imposing a fee in respect of the reasonable costs incurred by the operator by reason only of removing or disabling a physical connection between the operator’s water service infrastructure and the infrastructure of a person who holds or has held a right of access to that water service infrastructure.

(2) A fee levied for the purposes of subrule (1) must be identified as a disconnection fee in the operator’s applicable schedule of charges, whether or not it is payable at the same time as a fee under Division 2.

Division 4—Right to terminate right of access not affected

77 Right to terminate not affected

(1) Nothing in these Rules affects the right of an infrastructure operator to terminate the whole or any part of a right of access in accordance with a contract or arrangement applicable to that right.

(2) However, a fee, charge or payment of any kind is not payable in respect of such a termination except as expressly authorised under Division 2.

Part 11—Transitional provisions

Division 1—Amendments made by the Water Charge Amendment Rules 2019

78 Definitions

In this Division:

amending rules means the Water Charge Amendment Rules 2019.

old rules means the Water Charge (Infrastructure) Rules 2010, as in force immediately before 1 July 2020.

79 Transition for exemption provision (rule 9)

(1) An exemption in relation to an infrastructure charge under a particular contract in effect under subrule 9(1), or granted under subrule 9(6), before 1 July 2020 continues to apply on and after that date as if granted under rule 9 as amended by the amending rules.

Note: The effect is that the charge need not appear in a schedule of charges, and rule 7 does not apply in relation to the charge. However, any replacement schedule of charges adopted on or after 1 July 2020 must include the information about the exemption specified in subrule (5). That subrule includes the same requirements as in new subrule 9(13A).

(2) However, subrule (1) does not apply to an exemption in effect under subrule 9(1) of the old rules if, on or after 14 July 2010, the regulated charges specified in the contract in respect of which the exemption was in effect have been varied.

(3) The old rules apply in relation to an application for an exemption under rule 9 that was made, but not decided, before 1 July 2020.

(4) During the period of 12 months beginning on 1 July 2020, despite paragraph 9(3)(a), an application for an exemption under rule 9 may be made in relation to a contract that was entered into before that date.

(5) Despite subrule 9(13) as applied by subrule (1) of this rule, if an exemption is continued in force by subrule (1) of this rule, the infrastructure operator must, within 12 months after 1 July 2020, include the following information in its schedule of charges:

(a) a statement that the exemption has been granted under this rule;

(b) the name of the customer or customers;

(d) the infrastructure service to which the charge exempt from disclosure relates.

80 Transition for schedule of charges provisions (rule 7 and Part 4)

(1) This rule applies for the period of 12 months beginning on 1 July 2020.

Note: The effect of rule 80 is that infrastructure charges and planning and management charges that were in effect immediately before 1 July 2020 may continue for up to 12 months without further action by the person levying or determining the charges.

However, if any charge levied by an infrastructure operator or other person is to change, a new schedule of charges must first be adopted and come into effect for that operator or other person in accordance with Part 4 as amended.

Infrastructure operator

(2) An infrastructure operator is taken to comply with rule 7 and Part 4 if:

(a) each infrastructure charge that the operator levies on a customer is either:

(i) a charge specified in a schedule of charges (within the meaning of these rules as in force immediately before 1 July 2020) that:

(A) if rule 15 as it then stood was applicable—was published before 1 July 2020 in accordance with that rule; and

(B) was in effect for the operator immediately before 1 July 2020; and

(ii) covered by subrule 11(7); and

(b) each planning and management charge that the operator levies on a customer:

(i) is a charge about which information was published before 1 July 2020 in accordance with the Water Charge (Planning and Management Information) Rules 2010; and

(ii) was in effect for the operator immediately before 1 July 2020.

Other person levying planning and management charges

(3) A person other than an infrastructure operator is taken to comply with rule 7 and Part 4 on and after 1 July 2020 if each planning and management charge that it levies on a customer:

(a) is a charge about which information was published before 1 July 2020 in accordance with the Water Charge (Planning and Management Information) Rules 2010; and

(b) was in effect for the operator immediately before 1 July 2020.

81 Transition for existing Part 6 operators

(1) This rule applies to an infrastructure operator that, immediately before 1 July 2020, was a Part 6 operator in a regulatory period in respect of which its infrastructure charges had been determined or approved by the Regulator.

Note: Rule 81 deals with an infrastructure operator that was a Part 6 operator immediately before 1 July 2020 (when substantial amendments to the Rules came into effect). Because the amendments have changed the definition of Part 6 operator, it is possible the operator will no longer satisfy the definition. The operator will, however, continue to be treated as a Part 6 operator until the end of the transition period, which is at least the remainder of its current regulatory period. In particular, the operator will be subject to rule 8 and Part 6.

During the transition period, the operator’s status will be reassessed. If the operator will continue to be a Part 6 operator after the end of the transition period, the operator is required to make an application in relation to the next regulatory period under rule 25. Otherwise, the operator will cease to be treated as a Part 6 operator.

Transitional application and transition period

(2) If:

(a) the infrastructure operator had made an application for a determination or approval of charges under Part 6 before 1 July 2020; but

(b) the charges to which the application related had not been determined or approved before 1 July 2020;

then the application is a transitional application for the infrastructure operator.

(3) The transition period for the infrastructure operator begins on 1 July 2020 and ends at the end of:

(a) if the operator had made a transitional application—the regulatory period in relation to which the application was made; and

(b) otherwise—the latest regulatory period in relation to which charges had been determined or approved before 1 July 2020.

Application of these Rules during the transition period

(4) These Rules apply to the infrastructure operator during the transition period as if it continued to be a Part 6 operator under rule 23 as amended by the amending rules, except as provided in this rule.

(5) Where infrastructure charges of the operator were determined or approved before 1 July 2020 in relation to a period after 1 July 2020 (i.e. they were determined or approved under Part 6 as it then stood), the determination or approval is taken to have been made under Part 6 as amended by the amending rules on 1 July 2020.

(6) If the infrastructure operator had made a transitional application, then:

(a) the charges to which the application relates are to be determined or approved in accordance with Part 6 as it stood before 1 July 2020; and

(b) the determination or approval is taken to have been made under Part 6 as amended by the amending rules on 1 July 2020.

(7) In applying Divisions 2, 3 and 4 of Part 6, as amended by the amending rules, to the infrastructure operator:

(a) a reference to the ACCC is taken to be a reference to the Regulator; and

(b) Regulator has the same meaning as it did immediately before 1 July 2020.

(8) Rules 23A, 23B and 23D do not apply to the infrastructure operator until the operator has received the notification from the ACCC under subrule (12) of this rule.

(9) In applying rule 23D to the infrastructure operator, the reference in subrule 23D(2) to the remainder of the regulatory period is taken to be a reference to the remainder of the transition period.

(10) Rule 25 does not apply to the operator unless it has been notified in accordance with subparagraph (15)(d)(ii) of this rule that the next regulatory period for the operator will begin immediately after the end of the transition period for the operator.

Assessment of transitioning Part 6 operator against amended criteria

(11) As soon as practicable after 1 July 2020, the infrastructure operator must notify the ACCC of:

(a) whether or not it is a Part 6 operator under rule 23 as amended by the amending rules; and

(b) any matter that it is aware of that may result in the infrastructure operator ceasing to be a Part 6 operator, or becoming one, on a specified date.

(12) The ACCC must:

(a) form a view as to whether the infrastructure operator is a Part 6 operator under rule 23 as amended by the amending rules, or is likely to cease to be one or to become one before the end of the transition period; and

(b) notify the operator of the ACCC’s view; and

(c) if the ACCC is of the view that the operator is, or is likely to be, a Part 6 operator—advise the operator that the ACCC will decide whether the operator should be granted an exemption from the operation of Divisions 2, 3 and 4 of Part 6 after the end of the transition period.

(13) If paragraph (12)(c) applies, the ACCC must decide whether such an exemption should be granted by applying rule 23C as modified by subrule (15) of this rule.

Note: The ACCC will be required to notify the infrastructure operator of its decision under subrule 23C(12).

(14) If paragraph 12(c) does not apply but, later in the transition period, rule 23B applies so that the ACCC is to consider an exemption for the operator under rule 23C:

(a) any exemption may apply only after the transition period; and

(b) the ACCC must apply rule 23C as modified by subrule (15).

(15) For subrules (13) and (14), rule 23C is applied as if subrules 23C(9), (10), (11) and (12) were replaced by the following provisions:

(a) if the ACCC fails to make a decision under this rule (rule 23C as modified by subrule 81(15)) within 3 months after receiving the application, or giving the notice under rule 23B or paragraph 81(12)(b), the ACCC is taken to have decided to grant the operator an exemption from the operation of Divisions 2, 3 and 4 of Part 6 for the period of 3 years that begins immediately after the end of the transition period for the operator;

(b) if the ACCC decides not to grant the operator an exemption, the ACCC must set the next regulatory period as a period that begins immediately after the end of the transition period for the operator;

(i) for the purposes of the definition of regulatory period in subrule 3(1)—the date on which the operator’s first regulatory period began; and

(ii) for other purposes—1 July 2020;

(d) the ACCC must notify the infrastructure operator as soon as practicable:

(i) of a decision under this rule (including a decision taken to have been made under paragraph 81(15)(a)); and

(ii) if the ACCC does not grant the exemption—that the next regulatory period for the operator will begin immediately after the end of the transition period for the operator.

Note: The effect of this provision is that there is no discontinuity in the status of the operator as a Part 6 operator. In particular, rule 24A will not apply to applications for determination or approval of charges for the regulatory period following the transition period (only rule 25 will apply).

82 Transition for existing Part 7 operators

(1) If an infrastructure operator was a Part 7 operator immediately before 1 July 2020, then, on and after that date, it continues to be a Part 7 operator until it ceases to be a Part 7 operator in accordance with subrule 45(3) as in force immediately before 1 July 2020.

Application of Division 2 of Part 7 to existing Part 7 operators

(2) Division 2 of Part 7, as amended by the amending rules, applies to an infrastructure operator covered by subrule (1) as though:

(a) a reference to the ACCC were a reference to the Regulator; and

(b) Regulator had the same meaning as immediately before 1 July 2020.

83 Transition for Regulators under Part 9

If a State Agency was a Regulator immediately before 1 July 2020, it continues to be a Regulator for the purposes of:

(a) Divisions 2, 3 and 4 of Part 6, as applied by subrule 81(4); and

(b) Division 2 of Part 7, as applied by subrule 82(2);

until the accreditation of the Regulator is revoked by the ACCC, withdrawn by a Basin State or expires.

Note: A State Agency to which this rule applies will act as Regulator only to a transitioning Part 6 operator, for the remainder of the transition period for the operator.

86 Before clause 1 of Schedule 1

Insert:

Note: The regulatory period that is set to expire, referred to in this Schedule, may be:

(a) a regulatory period set by these Rules; or

(b) a regulatory period set by an agency of a State under a law of the State; or

1AA Use of forecasts in application

Where information specified by this Schedule for inclusion in the application is not yet available, the application must instead include a forecast of the information, with an annotation to the effect that the information is not yet available.

87 Clause 4 of Schedule 1

Repeal the clause, substitute:

4 Revenue

(1) Details of the Part 6 operator’s:

(a) actual revenue to date for each completed or part‑completed year of the regulatory period that is set to expire, from each of the following sources:

(i) revenue from infrastructure charges;

(ii) revenue from government contributions related to the provision of those infrastructure services;

(iii) revenue (other than from infrastructure charges) derived from the water service infrastructure used to provide infrastructure services; and

(b) forecast revenue for each remaining year or part year of the current regulatory period and the following regulatory period, from each of the sources mentioned in subparagraphs (a)(i), (ii), and (iii); and

(2) If the revenue is derived from charges levied by reference to a period (an agency revenue period) that:

(a) is set by an agency of a State under a law of the State; and

(b) does not align with the regulatory periods of the operator under these Rules;

the revenue may be stated as for each year or part year of the agency revenue period.

88 Paragraph 6(b) of Schedule 1

Omit “period:”, substitute “period;”.

89 Paragraph 8(a) of Schedule 1

Omit all the words before subparagraph (i), substitute:

(a) in respect of each year of the regulatory period that is set to expire, including the following:

90 At the end of paragraph 8(a) of Schedule 1

Add:

; (v) details of differences between the actual capital expenditure of the operator and the capital expenditure most recently accepted by an agency of a State under a State law, or the ACCC, for the purposes of the determination or approval of the operator’s regulated charges, with reference to the amount of capital expenditure and the selection and scope of projects undertaken; and

91 Paragraph 8(b) of Schedule 1

After “including”, insert “the following”.

92 Paragraph 9(a) of Schedule 1

Omit all the words before subparagraph (i), substitute:

(a) in respect of each year of the regulatory period that is set to expire, including the following:

93 Paragraph 1(a) of Schedule 2 (definition of A)

Omit “that were used for”, substitute “at the beginning of”.

94 Paragraph 1(a) of Schedule 2 (definition of C)

Repeal the definition, substitute:

C is the actual (or, where relevant, forecast) capital expenditure on assets used by the operator to provide infrastructure services (net of actual customer and government capital expenditure contributions) in respect of each year of the preceding period, other than any expenditure that:

(i) was made in relation to:

(A) a major project not previously approved; or

(B) a project whose scope as undertaken materially differed from what was approved; or

(ii) the ACCC is not satisfied was prudent and efficient expenditure.

95 Paragraph 1(a) of Schedule 2 (definition of E)

Omit “in the case of the last year of the preceding period,”, substitute “where relevant,”.

96 Clause 2 of Schedule 2 (definitions of A and B)

Repeal the definitions, substitute:

A is the regulatory asset base of the operator determined under this Schedule in respect of the preceding regulatory period as calculated under either clause 1 or this clause, and adjusted as appropriate by replacing any forecast amounts in the calculations of that asset base by the amounts actually spent or received.

B is the total of the actual (or, in the case of the last year of the preceding regulatory period, forecast) capital expenditure on assets used by the operator to provide infrastructure services (net of actual customer and government capital expenditure contributions) in respect of each year of the preceding regulatory period, other than any expenditure that:

(a) was made in relation to:

(i) a major project not previously approved; or

(ii) a project whose scope as undertaken materially differed from what was approved; or

(iii) a project on which expenditure materially exceeded the amount previously approved; and

(b) that the ACCC is not satisfied was prudent and efficient expenditure.

97 Clause 2 of Schedule 2 (definition of D)

Omit “in the case of the last year of the preceding regulatory period,”, substitute “where relevant,”.

98 After clause 2 of Schedule 2

Insert:

3 Approved capital expenditure project

For the purposes of calculating C in clause 1 or B in clause 2, a capital expenditure project should be taken to have been approved to the extent that the scope of, and expenditure on, a project proposed by an infrastructure operator was accepted by a State agency or the ACCC in forecasting the amount of capital expenditure to be used when approving, determining or varying the operator’s infrastructure charges.

99 Subclause 3(1) of Schedule 3

Omit “years financial years”, substitute “financial years”.

100 Paragraph 3(1)(b) of Schedule 3

Omit “assets for”, substitute “assets used for”.

101 Subclause 4(1) of Schedule 3

Omit “years financial years”, substitute “financial years”.

102 Schedules 4 and 5

Repeal the Schedules.

Part 2—Multiple amendments

Water Charge (Infrastructure) Rules 2010

103 Amendments of listed provisions—applicant

Omit “applicant’s” (wherever occurring) and substitute “Part 6 operator’s” in the following provisions:

(a) paragraphs 28(a) and 29(2)(a);

(b) subrule 29(3);

(d) subrule 43(1).

104 Amendments of listed provisions—initial period

Omit “the initial period or” (wherever occurring) in the following provisions:

(a) Schedule 1, paragraph 5(a);

(b) Schedule 1, paragraph 6(a);

(d) Schedule 1, paragraph 10(a);

(e) Schedule 1, paragraph 11(a);

(f) Schedule 1, clause 12.

105 Amendments of listed provisions—provide

Omit “provide” and substitute “give the ACCC” in the following provisions:

(a) rule 26;

(b) rule 35;

(d) rule 47.

106 Amendments of listed provisions—regulated charges

(1) Omit “regulated charges” (wherever occurring) and substitute “infrastructure charges” in the following provisions:

(a) subrule 3(1) (paragraph (d) of the definition of application period);

(b) paragraphs 8(3)(a) and 9(13)(a) and (b);

(d) rule 10 (including the heading);

(e) Part 6 (heading);

(f) Division 2 of Part 6 (heading);

(g) rule 26;

(h) paragraph 28(a);

(i) rule 29;

(j) subrule 31(1);

(k) subrule 33(3);

(l) Division 3 of Part 6 (heading);

(m) rule 34 (including the heading);

(o) rule 35;

(p) rule 36;

(q) rule 37 (including the heading);

(r) subrules 38(1) and (3);

(s) rule 39 (including the heading);

(t) rule 40;

(u) subrule 44(1);

(v) Part 7 (heading);

(w) Division 2 of Part 7 (heading);

(x) subrule 46(1);

(y) paragraph 48(a);

(z) rule 49 (including the heading);

(za) rule 50 (heading);

(zb) subrule 50(1);

(zc) subrule 51(1);

(zd) subparagraph 54(2)(c)(ii);

(ze) paragraph 54(4)(b);

(zf) Schedule 1, clauses 2 and 3;

(zg) Schedule 1, clause 12 (not including the heading);

(zh) Schedule 3, clause 1 (not including the heading);

(zi) Schedule 3, clause 3 (including the heading);

(zj) Schedule 3, subclause 4(2).

(2) Omit “a regulated charge” and substitute “an infrastructure charge” in subrule 8(3).

(3) Omit “the regulated charge” and substitute “the infrastructure charge” in paragraph 8(3)(b).

(4) Omit “Regulated charges” and substitute “Infrastructure charges” in the headings to each of the following provisions:

(a) Schedule 1, clause 12;

(b) Schedule 3, clause 1.

107 Amendments of listed provisions—Regulator

Omit “Regulator” and “Regulator’s” (wherever occurring) and substitute “ACCC” or “ACCC’s” as appropriate in the following provisions:

(a) subrule 3(1) (paragraph (d) of the definition of application period);

(b) paragraph 9(13)(b);

(d) rule 27 (including the heading);

(e) rule 28 (including the heading);

(f) rule 29;

(g) rule 31 (including the heading);

(h) subrule 33(3);

(i) rule 34 (including the heading);

(j) rule 35 (including the heading);

(k) rule 36 (including the heading);

(l) rule 37 (including the heading);

(m) rule 38;

(n) subrule 39(2);

(o) subrule 40(1);

(p) rule 41 (including the heading);

(q) rule 42 (including the heading);

(r) rule 43 (including the heading);

(s) rule 44 (including the heading);

(t) rule 46 (including the heading);

(u) rule 47 (including the heading);

(v) rule 48 (including the heading);

(w) rule 49 (including the heading);

(x) rule 50 (including the heading);

(y) rule 51 (including the heading);

(z) rule 53 (including the heading);

(za) rule 54 (including the heading).

108 Amendments of listed provisions—cause to be available

(1) Omit “cause the notice, and the reasons for its decision, to be made available”, substitute “publish the notice and the reasons for its decision” in subrule 31(2).

(2) Omit “cause the notice, and the reasons for its decisions, to be made available” wherever occurring, substitute “publish the notice and the reasons for its decisions” in the following provisions:

(a) subrule 38(2);

(b) subrule 44(2);

(3) Omit “cause a copy of the notice to be made available” wherever occurring, substitute “publish the notice” in each of the following provisions:

(a) subrule 37(6);

(b) subrule 50(4).

(4) Omit “cause a copy of the notice to be available”, substitute “publish the notice” in subrule 43(4).

109 Amendments of listed provisions—on or after

Omit “or after” in the following provisions:

(a) subrule 31(2);

(b) subrule 38(2);

(d) subrule 51(2).

110 Amendments of listed provisions—reference to Part 9

(1) Omit “Part 6, 7 or 9” (wherever occurring) and substitute “Part 6 or 7” in the following provisions:

(a) subrules 53(1) and (2);

(b) paragraph 54(1)(a).

(2) Omit “or making a decision under Part 9” in the following provisions:

(a) subparagraph 54(2)(c)(ii);

(b) paragraph 54(4)(b).

111 Amendments of listed provisions—has the meaning given by

Omit “has the meaning given by” and substitute “: see” in the following provisions:

(a) subrule 3(1) (definition of Part 6 operator);

(b) subrule 3(1) (definition of Part 7 operator).

112 Amendments of listed provisions—website

Omit “Internet site” and substitute “website” in the following provisions:

(a) subrule 9(12);

(b) paragraph 9(13)(b);

(d) paragraph 28(b);

(e) subrule 31(2);

(f) paragraph 36(b);

(g) subrule 37(6);

(h) subrule 38(2);

(i) rule 42;

(j) subrule 43(4);

(k) subrule 44(2);

(l) paragraph 48(b);

(m) subrule 50(4);

(n) subrule 51(2).

Schedule 2—Repeals

Water Charge (Planning and Management Information) Rules 2010

1 The whole of the instrument

Repeal the instrument.

Water Charge (Termination Fees) Rules 2009

2 The whole of the instrument

Repeal the instrument.

Commencement information
Column 1	Column 2	Column 3
Provisions	Commencement	Date/Details
1. The whole of this instrument	1 July 2020.	1 July 2020