Energy Consumers Australia attends, as an observer, the meetings of the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Energy Council (the Council). The three market institutions – the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC), the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) and the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) – also attend as observers.

Ministers met to discuss their top priority ensuring the security, reliability, affordability and sustainability of the electricity market whilst working towards a lower emissions future.

The new South Australian Minister for Energy and Mining, the Hon Dan van Holst Pellekaan, was welcomed by the Council. The Council also acknowledged the significant contribution of
the previous South Australian Energy Minister Tom Koutsantonis.

Ministers acknowledged the significant and enduring contribution of Mr Terry Effeney, who sadly passed away in March 2018. Mr Effeney held many leadership positions in the electricity industry in Queensland and was highly regarded by the energy industry in Australia. Mr Effeney was also a panel member of the Finkel Review and was remembered for his willingness to share his time and expertise, his warmth and his strength of character.

The full briefing paper based on the communique can be read here.