With a modelling agency conducting interviews in the room next door, organisers did very well getting everyone inside and seated to hear guest speaker for the lunch, Federal Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources, the Hon. Ian Macfarlane MP.

The Minister managed to make economic issues into an interesting and informative address for the 156 people who attended, and also highlighted his and the Government’s commitment to encouraging investment in gas transmission infrastructure.

Immediately before the lunch, the Minister met with APIA Board Members to discuss proposed legislation, part of the Government’s energy reform package, which will introduce major changes to the regulatory regime.

The legislation is expected to contain some difficult issues for the industry, but the Minister gave the Board his personal assurance that any concerns APIA has with the draft legislation will be fully considered by the Government, and he said he is prepared to make changes to increase certainty and ensure the future of the industry.

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The lunch was sponsored by GHD.