Legislative framework for gas

The Minister for Energy has responsibility for the Gas Supply Act 1996 (the Act). Industry & Investment NSW administers the Act on the Minister's behalf.

Gas networks

A natural gas network operator must hold a 'Reticulator's Authorisation' granted by the Minister under the Act.

Operators of gas networks that convey gases other than natural gas require a 'Distributor's Licence' granted by the Minister under the Act.

Irrespective of the type of authorisation or licence, the primary obligations for a network operator are to be found within the Gas Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2008.

Natural gas network operators also have obligations in relation to the retail market under the Gas Supply (Natural Gas Retail Competition) Regulation 2001.

Authorised suppliers

Under the Act, a person who supplies (retails) natural gas to a customer must hold a Supplier's Authorisation. Obligations of the authorised suppliers are imposed under the Gas Supply (Natural Gas Retail Competition) Regulation 2001.

A list of authorised gas suppliers available from the licensing authority, the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).

Legislation and regulations

• Gas Supply Act 1996
• Gas Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2008
• Gas Supply (Natural Gas Retail Competition) Regulation 2001
• Gas Retail Market Business Rules to Support Retail Competition in Gas (PDF 1.1MB)

For more legislation, go to the Legislation NSW website.