As from 1 September 2008 the Panel's office will operate from new premises in Sydney and the Melbourne office will be closed   Click here for contact details.

As a result of feedback from SCO, the Panel has revised guideline 2.2.3 so the requirements for obtaining quotes from consultants conform with government procurement guidelines.  The revised guidelines await approval from the MCE.

Ms Kerry Connors has been appointed Executive Director of the Consumer Advocacy Panel and will take up the appointment on 1 September 2008.

Following consultation with stakeholders, the Panel has published a report on the advocacy and research agenda for 2008/2009 that will provide guidance to its grant allocations.

Summary of funding decisions made during June 2008.

At its meeting on 26 June 2008 the Panel resolved that modified grant allocation criteria and application guidelines resulting from recent consultation with stakeholders be forwarded to the MCE for approval and that a report on the consultation be posted for the information of stakeholders.

On 1 July 2008, the Consumer Advocacy Panel was established by the Australian Energy Market Commission Establishment Act 2004, as amended, to replace the Advocacy Panel. The current members of the Panel continue in office in accordance with the Act.

The content of the website will soon be amended to reflect the provisions of the Act.

The AEMC has announced that Ms Karen Chalmers-Scott has been appointed to the Panel for the period 25 June 2008 to 31 March 2009.

Summary of funding decisions made during May 2008.

02/06/2008

The Panel is seeking stakeholders’ views as to the content of the advocacy and research agenda that will guide the Panel in the allocation of its 2008/2009 funding budget.
The attached memorandum sets out the background to this request and seeks the assistance of stakeholders in the preparation of the advocacy and research agenda.
The Panel would appreciate your comments on these matters. Please forward comments to the Panel’s office by email to info@advocacypanel.com.au by Friday, 20 June 2008.

The AEMC has approved a budget of $1,986,446 incl GST for the panel’s electricity advocacy, research, and administrative costs in 2008/2009. SCO has advised that should the Australian Energy Market Commission Establishment (Consumer Advocacy Panel) Amendment Act 2007 commence on 1 July 2008, it has approved a budget for 2008/2009 of $550,000 excl GST for gas advocacy, research, and administrative costs.

The panel seeks comments from stakeholders on proposed grant allocation criteria and application guidelines that it will submit to the Ministerial Council on Energy for approval for use after the Australian Energy Market Commission Establishment (Consumer Advocacy Panel) Amendment Act, 2007 commences.

Stakeholders are invited to make submissions on the proposed guidelines which should be forwarded to info@advocacypanel.com.au by 5 pm on 11 June 2008.

Summary of funding decisions made during April 2008.

As from 1 July 2008 the panel’s office will be relocated to level 5, 201 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, the offices of the Australian Energy Market Commission, and as from the commencement of the Australian Energy Market Commission Establishment (Consumer Advocacy Panel) Amendment Act 2007, the panel’s staff will be employed by the Commission.

As a consequence of the relocation, the panel and Commission are seeking an executive director for the panel’s Sydney office.  Details of the position can be found here.

In late 2006, the panel undertook consultation with stakeholders on revised funding criteria and application guidelines (guidelines) which resulted in the submission to the AEMC in February 2007 of proposed new guidelines.  The AEMC deferred approval of the guidelines pending inclusion of information on how the effectiveness of funded projects could be evaluated.

In May 2007, the panel commenced consultation with stakeholders on a process for evaluating the effectiveness of projects which resulted in the publishing in October 2007 of a proposed evaluation process.  After considering comments by stakeholders, in January 2008 the panel published the final evaluation process and in February 2008 forwarded to the AEMC for its approval guidelines amended to include the evaluation process. 

On 10 April 2008, the AEMC advised that it had approved the amended guidelines subject to their amendment to include the latest wording of the national electricity objective that commenced on 1 January 2008.  The guidelines are now published for the information of stakeholders.

Summary of funding decisions made during March 2008.

Further to the notice of 3 March 2008 that the panel was seeking proposals from consultants to undertake research on this topic, after considering the proposals the Panel appointed ACIL Tasman.

The Advocacy Panel annual report for 2006-2007 has been published.

Summary of funding decisions made during February 2008.

The panel has invited consultants to submit proposals to provide advice on the major classes of consumers in the NEM and their interests.  The purpose of the project is to identify the major consumer classes, their interests and current involvement in market issues, and any gaps or overlaps in advocacy in order that the Panel can consider how its funding budget ought to be allocated in order to best promote the interests of consumers of electricity.

The Latest News and Updates section of the Panel's website will provide information on the project as it evolves.

The panel has issued guidance for organisations considering applying for advocacy/capacity building funding in 2008/2009.  The guidance deals with the matters that must be considered and attended to when preparing the project budget.

Following consideration of responses from stakeholders, the panel has published its final report on the funding requirement budget for 2008/2009.

The report has been provided to the Standing Committee of Officials of the Ministerial Council on Energy and the Australian Energy Market Commission for their consideration and the Commission’s decision on the budget.

Summary of funding decisions made during January 2008.

In October 2007 the panel invited stakeholders to provide comments on a process for evaluating the effectiveness of projects.  The panel appreciated the responses from stakeholders and has now determined the process that will be followed.

The objectives of the evaluation process are:

• To improve the effectiveness and efficiency of advocacy by providing specific feedback and guidance to applicants whose work is evaluated and by providing a general ‘lessons learnt’ that will be available to all applicants;
• Provide information on the effectiveness and efficiency of the panel’s funding program that will guide future funding decisions.

Pursuant to cl 8.10 of the National Electricity Rules, the panel is required to determine its proposed funding requirement for the 2008/2009 financial year in accordance with the Rules consultation procedures and to submit the proposed funding requirement to the Australian Energy Market Commission by 12 February 2008 for its approval.

Following consideration of responses to the consultation paper of November 2007, the Panel has issued a draft report for comment.

Registered Participants and interested parties are invited to make written submissions to the panel concerning the funding requirement set out in the draft report.  Submissions should be forwarded by email to djlb@axtonjones.com.au no later than 5 pm on 11 February 2008.

Summary of funding decisions made during December 2007.

In September 2007, the panel issued for comment by stakeholders a draft strategic plan for 2007-2009.  Following consideration of submissions by stakeholders, the panel has issued a report and a revised strategic plan.

Summary of funding decisions made during November 2007.

Summary of funding decisions made during October 2007.

Pursuant to cl 8.10.5(b) of the National Electricity Rules, the panel is required to determine its proposed funding requirement for the 2008/2009 financial year in accordance with the Rules consultation procedures and to submit the proposed funding requirement to the Australian Energy Market Commission by 12 February 2008 for its approval.

The Panel has issued a funding requirement consultation paper for comment.

Registered Participants and interested parties are invited to make written submissions to the panel concerning the funding requirement.  Submissions should be forwarded, preferably by email, to reach the Panel’s office by no later than 5 pm on 20 December 2007.

Summary of funding decisions made during September 2007.

In April/May 2007 the panel entered into consultation with stakeholders on how the effectiveness of panel-funded projects could be evaluated.  The consultation was undertaken because the panel wished to assess the effectiveness of the manner in which the funds it grants are used in undertaking advocacy on behalf of end-users of electricity.  In addition, the panel felt that evaluations could assist advocates to be more effective in achieving their objectives.

As a result of the consultation, the panel appointed ACIL Tasman to develop a framework for the evaluation process and to undertake an evaluation of two capacity building projects.  ACIL Tasman has provided a report entitled Evaluation of the effectiveness of advocacy projects.

The Panel has invited stakeholders to provide comments on the evaluation process recommended by ACIL Tasman in its report.  After considering the comments, the Panel will determine the evaluation process to be implemented.

Interested parties should forward comments to the Executive Officer of the panel at djlb@axtonjones.com.au by 17 October 2007.

The Advocacy Panel has issued a draft strategic plan for 2007-2009 and would appreciate stakeholders’ comments on it.  Comments should be forwarded by email to djlb@advocacypanel.com.au by 5 October 2007.

The panel has issued a report on the conclusions reached as a result of consultation with stakeholders on a structured approach to the allocation of the 2007/2008 funding budget.

The panel has issued a report on the conclusions reached as a result of consultation with stakeholders on the funding of fixed costs included in project budgets and the evaluation of the effectiveness of projects.

On 8 May 2007 the AEMC substituted an amount of $2,030,168 (excluding GST) as the panel’s budget for electricity advocacy grants and operating expenses in 2007/2008.  Of this amount, the funding requirement to be provided by NEMMCO is $1,778,168 (plus GST) with the balance to come from the panel’s retained funds and interest on those funds.

Following consultation with interested parties, the panel determined a budget of $2,042,168 (excluding costs for the proposed undertaking of gas advocacy) which it recommended to the AEMC for its approval.  Later, the panel amended its proposed budget to $2,080,168 in order to provide additional funds to develop methodologies for the evaluation of the effectiveness of funding allocations and to take account of an anticipated increase the panel’s retained funds as at 30 June 2007.  The AEMC subsequently approved a budget of $2,030,168.

At its May 2007 meeting the Advocacy Panel will be considering two matters - how the effectiveness of panel-funded projects can be assessed and whether or not the panel should fund fixed costs included in project budgets.  Before considering these matters the panel is seeking the views of interested parties.

The panel has prepared an explanatory memorandum setting out some preliminary views for your consideration.

The panel would appreciate your comments on these matters.  Please forward comments to the panel’s office by email to djlb@axtonjones.com.au by Friday, 11 May 2007.

The Advocacy Panel is seeking the views of end-user advocates as to the content of the advocacy agenda that will guide the panel in the allocation of its 2007/2008 funding budget. 

The attached memorandum sets out the background to this request and seeks the assistance of end-user advocates in the preparation of the advocacy agenda.

The panel would appreciate your comments on this matter.  Please forward comments to the panel’s office by email to djlb@axtonjones.com.au by Friday, 11 May 2007.

The Panel has resolved that imputed costs cannot be included in a project budget or considered to be a contribution by the applicant towards the cost of a project.  Imputed costs are those which the applicant has not actually paid, for example, the value of time provided by volunteers.

The Panel’s decision is based on its understanding of Rule 8.10.3(d)(4) of the National Electricity Rules (the Rules).  The Rule lists the functions that the Panel must perform and in paragraph 3(d) sets out the principles that the funding criteria used by the Panel for allocating funding must be consistent with.  Paragraph (d)(4) is as follows:

 “The applicant for funding must fund a share of the project costs from a source other than funding provided by the Advocacy Panel.  In considering the contribution made by an applicant the Advocacy Panel may consider non-financial contributions, for example staff time, in lieu of a direct pecuniary contribution.  An applicant may seek to waive the requirement to fund a share of the project costs but the Advocacy Panel has discretion as to whether or not to grant the waiver;” [emphasis added].

The requirement for the applicant to fund a share of the project cost (the co-payment) was originally included in the Rules because it was thought that the co-payment would illustrate an applicant’s commitment to the project and should deter projects with limited value. 

The requirement is that the applicant contribute to the project cost by way of either a direct pecuniary contribution or a non-financial contribution such as staff time i.e. the applicant makes a co-payment either directly or indirectly through some other expenditure such as on staff committed to the project.  As a consequence, an applicant cannot claim as part of the project budget or as a co-payment costs that it does not incur.

The Panel notes that many of the organisations who apply for funding receive considerable and valuable assistance from volunteers on their committees of management or from employees of companies that are members of the organisations.  However, under the Rules, as the applicant organisations do not incur the salary cost of those volunteers, the imputed value of their contribution to projects cannot be included in the project budgets or as part of the co-payment.

The Advocacy Panel Annual Report for 2005-2006 has been published.

Potential applicants are advised that applications should be submitted in time to be considered at the panel’s April 2007 meeting.  Currently the meeting is scheduled for 10 April and the closing date for applications will be 20 March.  Any changes to the meeting date will be published on the panel’s website.

On 5 February 2007, the panel adopted new guidelines for the regulation and conduct of its meetings.  The guidelines also include a description of the process that the panel follows in the consideration of applications for funding.  The guidelines are provided for the information of potential and current applicants for funding.

Under the National Electricity Rules, the panel is required to review its funding criteria and application guidelines and therefore on 16 October 2006 a consultation paper was issued in order that interested parties could comment on the proposed criteria and guidelines.  Following the consultation, a draft report is now issued and registered participants, intending participants and interested parties are invited to make written responses to the panel on this report.  Responses should be forwarded by email to reach the panel’s office by no later than 5.00 pm on 8 January 2007.

Consultation on draft report on funding requirement for 2007/08

Under clause 8.10.5 of the National Electricity Rules, the panel is required to determine the proposed funding requirement for each financial year and therefore on 18 September 2006 a consultation paper was issued in order that interested parties could comment on the electricity advocacy funding requirement proposed by the panel for the 2007/08 financial year.  Following the consultation, a draft report is now issued and registered participants, intending participants and interested parties are invited to make written responses to the panel on this report.  Responses should be forwarded by email to reach the panel’s office by no later than 5.00 pm on 8 January 2007.

The AEMC has made the following appointments to the panel - Mr Frank Peach (chairperson), Professor Bill Russell, Ms Catherine Cooper and Mr Gordon Renouf.  The appointments take effect from 1 December 2006.  The appointment of a fifth member is under consideration.

At its meeting on 10 October 2006, the panel received a report on consultation with interested parties regarding the proposed adoption by the panel of a revised funding application form and a process for the prioritisation of funding approvals. The report is published for the information of applicants.

At its meeting on 10 October 2006, the Panel received a report on consultation with interested parties regarding the proposed adoption by the Panel of a structured approach to the allocation of funding.  The report is published for the information of applicants.

Pursuant to cl 8.10.6 of the National Electricity Rules, the panel is required to develop and publish funding criteria and funding application guidelines in accordance with the Rules consultation procedures and to submit the proposed criteria and guidelines to the Australian Energy Market Commission for its approval.

The panel now issues its consultation paper.

Registered Participants and interested parties are invited to make written submissions to the panel concerning the criteria and guidelines.  Submissions should be forwarded, preferably by email to info@advocacypanel.com.au, to reach the panel’s office by no later than 5 pm on 22 November 2006.

The Panel has issued a funding requirement consultation paper for comment.

Registered Participants and interested parties are invited to make written submissions to the panel concerning the funding requirement.  Submissions should be forwarded, preferably by email, to reach the panel’s office by no later than 5 pm on 30 October 2006.

The Australian Energy Market Commission has advised that it is seeking expressions of interest for appointment to the Advocacy Panel.  The positions of Chairperson and four members are to be filled.  The closing date for expressions of interest is 16 September 2006.

The Commission has commenced the Rules consultation procedure seeking comments on draft guidelines for the appointment of members of the Advocacy Panel.  Submissions on the draft appointment guidelines must be received by 20 October.

Further details can be found at http://www.aemc.gov.au/advocacy.php

The panel is proposing to adopt a structured approach to the allocation of its funding budget.  A report on the proposal is available.  Comments, by 15 September 2006, would be appreciated.

Summary of funding decisions made at the Panel's meeting on 19 April 2006.

The Advocacy Panel Annual Report for 2004-2005 has been published

Summary of funding decisions made at the Panel's meeting on 15 February 2006.

On 24 October 2005, the chairman of the Advocacy Panel entered into the National Electricity Rules consultative procedure seeking submissions on new draft guidelines for the appointment of representatives to the panel.  In accordance with the Rules, the chairman published a draft report on 5 December 2005 and invited responses to it by 30 December 2005.  The final report has now been issued.  In view of the Rule change proposal presently before the AEMC, the chairman decided not to make a determination at this time.

The Australian Energy Market Commission has appointed Frank Peach as chairperson of the Advocacy Panel following the expiration of the term of the previous chairperson, Adam Bisits.

Mr Peach has served as a public servant for many years in Queensland, including in the positions of Director General of Education, Director General of Corrective Services, Director General of Families, and Director General of Housing.  He now operates a small consultancy company specializing in organisational development, executive coaching, education strategies, and strategic reviews and investigations.

On 9 November 2005 an advertisement will appear in The Australian newspaper seeking expressions of interest for appointment to four positions on the panel, representing respectively domestic end-users of electricity, business end-users, market participants (retailers) and market generators.

Potential applications should review the current and proposed new guidelines for appointment and the standards of conduct for members.  Terms of appointment, including remuneration and tenure are set by the chairman.

Expressions of interest should be sent to the chairman at djlb@axtonjones.com.au or post office box 43, Surrey Hills 3127, to reach him by 4 pm Thursday, 24 November 2005. Enquiries: D Bremner, Executive Officer, 03 9899 5111, A Bisits 03 9817 7346.

The chairman of the Panel is required under cl 8.10.2 of the National Electricity Rules to publish guidelines for the appointment of the other four members of the Panel and to make such appointments.  The current chairman has given notice that he has prepared draft revised guidelines on which he is seeking comments by 5 pm on 2 December 2005 in accordance with the consultation process set down in the Rules.  Click here to view the current guidelines.

At its meeting on 7 October 2005, the Advocacy Panel resolved to issue its final report on new funding criteria and guidelines and to make a determination that the funding criteria and guidelines set out in attachment B of the report are adopted by the Panel with effect from 8 October 2005.  The report is also published on the AEMC website.

In an advertisement in The Australian newspaper of 26 August 2005 the panel called for applications for funding of projects that enhance the capacity of domestic and business organisations to represent electricity customers' interests affected by the national electricity market.  Applicants should consider the Panel’s current funding criteria and its proposed funding criteria.  Applications for funding should be lodged with the Panel by 16 September 2005 and will be considered at its meeting on 7 October 2005.

Draft report on new funding criteria and guidelines

In March 2005 the Advocacy Panel entered into the Code consultative process seeking submissions on its new draft funding criteria and guidelines. In accordance with the National Electricity Rules, the panel has now published its draft report on submissions received.  The draft report has also been provided to the AEMC in order that it may publish the report on its website.  Responses to the draft report must be forwarded to arrive at the panel's office by no later than 5.00 pm on 29 August 2005.

7/04/2004

Dr Tony Cook of Energy Solutions Australia Pty Ltd attended an industry forum on 31 March 2004 to advise the panel on further work and issues affecting consumers concerning regional boundary structure in the national electricity market.