Representatives from the major pipeline owners and potential owners met with Maurice Overy, Executive Director Energy Systems and Adrian Amey, Manager Gas Networks and Pipelines, to discuss items of mutual interest. It was an opportunity to explain all the actions being taken in the industry particularly in the area of pipeline operator staff competencies.

The responsibility of pipeline owners to comply with the conditions of the pipeline license was paramount in the mind of DEUS representatives and they were particularly pleased to hear that progress was being made in the preparation of industry wide competency standards for staff that operate and maintain high pressure pipelines.

These standards are being prepared by the organisation EE-OZ Training Standards as part of a Federal Government initiative.

This work has support of all segments of the industry and is to be accredited by the TAFE education system.

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DEUS reported on some proposed changes to the NSW Pipelines Act and a copy of the material circulated is available from Adrian Amey (adrian.amey@deus.nsw.gov.au). Many of the changes are based around streamlining the Act. Important changes are under consideration in the areas of land areas for pipelines, consolidation of pipeline licenses and safety and compliance, as well as various changes to management of third party interference and pipeline management. Industry representatives emphasised the importance of recognising transmission pipeline companies as a party to be consulted in general land planning processes in the vicinity of high pressure pipelines.

DEUS would be pleased to discuss these matters with any interested party and will be seeking public comments on the proposed changes to the Act when a firm timetable has been established.

This meeting was extremely beneficial to all parties and the Department is to be commended for arranging and hosting the industry consultation session.