Annual review of reference tariffs

Following stakeholder consultation, on 27 June 2012, we approved Aurizon Network’s proposal.

On 28 March 2012, Aurizon Network submitted revised volume forecasts and proposed reference tariffs for 2012–13.

On 24 June 2011, we approved variations to reference tariffs for 2011–12, along with associated variations in system forecasts for 2011–12, and system allowable revenues for 2011–12 and 2012–13, as contained in option 2 of QR Network’s 18 May submission to us.

We also approved QR Network’s proposed finalised amount for the balance of the capital expenditure carry-over account at 30 June 2009, and the associated adjustments to the opening asset value as at 1 July 2009.

The approved reference tariffs for 2011–12 incorporate increases averaging 10% over those contained in the 2010 access undertaking. The increases are primarily due to lower volume forecasts which QR Network attributed to the on-going effects of flooding in central Queensland coal mines.

The approved reference tariffs, and our analysis of QR Network’s proposals, are set out in our final decision.

QR Network’s 2010 access undertaking provides for reference tariffs for the central Queensland coal network to be reviewed on an annual basis.

QR Network submitted proposed variations to reference tariffs for 2011-12 to us on 11 April 2011. Following public consultation, on 18 May 2011, QR Network lodged a supplementary submission to amend aspects of its proposal.