On the regulatory front, the Regulatory Affairs Committee continues its good work by meeting the challenges of economic regulation. The long-awaited Government response to the Productivity Commission Report will provide a much-needed guide to the Government’s direction regarding pipeline infrastructure regulation.

The Research and Standards Committee is also making headway with its strong relationships with international organisations based in Europe (European Pipeline Research Group) and the United States (Pipeline Research Council International). These relationships confirm the fact that APIA has influence in, and access to, international research projects. To this end, the highly respected Joint Technical Meeting (JTM) of the three international organisations including APIA will be held in Australia for the first time.

The JTM will meet in Canberra in 2007. Australia will host many internationally recognised engineers, scientists and researchers - further raising APIA’s profile.

APIA will also hold a commercial/technical seminar on 23 May in Brisbane. I encourage all members to participate in what promises to be a very interesting day, followed by the APIA dinner and networking event. I look forward to catching up with as many members as possible at this, and other functions around the country.

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As part of APIA’s commitment to nurturing young talent, I also urge all employers to participate by funding through sponsorship or encouraging their younger colleagues to attend the Young People’s Forum in Canberra on 5-6 May.

Young employees can find out more about the industry, get a better understanding of the various career opportunities and also develop a new level of networking - a tool which has been instrumental in keeping this industry strong and vibrant.

I am delighted to accept the invitation to open this Forum and encourage other members to attend the lunch or dinner to share their experiences and knowledge about career opportunities with the younger participants.

As well as attracting young talent, we must also ensure those who are already in the industry, remain. The Young People’s Forum is another great way to build relationships and encourage all participants to consider a long-term career in this dynamic industry.

Lastly, the board has commenced the APIA strategic plan review. In these rapidly changing times, a clear strategy and good planning becomes increasingly important. We will keep all members informed of review outcomes.

Mark Harper

APIA President