What we do
The Office of the Western Australian Energy Disputes Arbitrator provides a disputes resolution service between users, or prospective users, and providers of gas pipeline services and other parties seeking access to regulated gas pipelines. The Arbitrator may also resolve disputes in relation to the negotiation of contracts and contractual disputes regarding access to regulated electricity networks.
The Arbitrator has responsibility for the financial management and provision of administrative support to the Western Australian Electricity Review Board.
The services provided by the Arbitrator relate to infrastructure located in Western Australia. This includes Western Power’s electricity network and regulated natural gas pipelines in the State.
There are currently four regulated gas pipeline systems in Western Australia:
- Dampier to Bunbury Natural Gas Pipeline;
- Goldfields Gas Pipeline;
- Kalgoorlie to Kambalda Pipeline; and
- Mid-West and South-West Gas Distribution Systems.
The Arbitrator does not have a supporting organisation, but public service employees can be assigned to assist the Arbitrator perform his functions. The Arbitrator has an administrative arrangement with Energy Policy WA for the provision of corporate services.
The Arbitrator
Mr Gordon Smith was appointed as Energy Disputes Arbitrator for a three year term from 12 July 2022.