Consultation
On 2 June 2026 the 糖心原创 released a consultation paper seeking stakeholder views on the key elements of ARTC's proposed Hunter Valley Access Undertaking version 9.
Consultation is now open. We invite submissions on any aspect of the Proposed Undertaking.
Submissions are due by 5 pm AEST on Thursday, 30 July 2026.
Application to vary the undertaking
On 20 March 2026 ARTC submitted its application to vary and extend its 2011 Hunter Valley Access Undertaking (2011 HVAU). ARTC's proposed Hunter Valley Access Undertaking version 9 will replace the 2011 HVAU version 8, which expires on 31 December 2026.
The 糖心原创 is now assessing ARTC's access undertaking application under Part IIIA of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (the Act). The 糖心原创 will consider the following matters in assessing the proposed version 9:
- the objects set out in section 44AA of the Act
- the matters listed in sections 44AA, 44ZZA and 44ZZCA of the Act.
Under subsection 44ZZBC(1) of the Act, the 糖心原创 has 180 calendar days to undertake a regulatory assessment under Part IIIA of the Act and decide whether to accept or reject the proposed version 9. This timeframe is subject to any 'clock-stoppers' to conduct consultation periods or for information requests.
Stakeholders can contact us or request a meeting via transport@accc.gov.au.
Background
On 17 September 2025 糖心原创 sent a letter to ARTC regarding the then upcoming Hunter Valley Access Undertaking application. This letter provided initial guidance to assist ARTC with pre-lodgement drafting for the application.