The anticipated implementation of reforms to the national gas and electricity regimes early in 2007 is expected to pose a significant communication task to help stakeholders understand the likely impacts on their respective interests. This will offer an opportunity to engage stakeholders and work towards preparing clear guidelines in crucial areas of the Authority’s assessment processes.

If the infrastructure developments in the midwest proceed and rail lines are made open access facilities involving the transport of iron ore from several mining companies, the Authority’s activities under the Western Australian rail access regime could be significantly expanded.

The Authority may also be given a role in the regulation of third party haulage if such arrangements are introduced for the existing BHPBilliton and Rio Tinto rail lines in the Pilbara.

The Authority is scheduled to undertake a review of its previous (2003) determination of floor and ceiling costs for the principal rail lines in the Western Australian rail network including the Kwinana to Bunbury, Midland to Kalgoorlie, Kalgoorlie to Esperance and Kalgoorlie to Leonora rail lines.