Northern Territory Second Reading Speeches

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ENERGY PIPELINES AMENDMENT BILL 2003

(This an uncorrected proof of the daily report. It is made available under the condition that it is recognised as such.)

Madam Speaker, I move that the bill be now read a second time.

The main purpose of this bill is to mirror the provisions of the corresponding Northern Territory Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1967 in relation to the term of the pipeline licence. It is proposed to amend the term of an onshore pipeline licence issued under the Energy Pipelines Act so that, in the future, a licence will be granted for an indefinite term.

This change will achieve consistency between the Energy Pipelines Act, Northern Territory Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act and the Commonwealth Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1967 so that a common indefinite term of the licence will apply to all onshore and offshore licences. The immediate effect of the change will be that a common term of licence will apply to the full length of the proposed Bayu-Undan to Darwin pipeline. The amendments will provide a more efficient licence administration.

As a consequence of this amendment that will provide an indefinite term of an onshore pipeline licence, it is necessary to repeal the present renewal provisions relating to onshore pipeline licences. Existing onshore pipeline licences will be unaffected by the change, as there are other granted pipeline licences under the Energy Pipelines Act. A corresponding savings clause for existing pipeline licences has been included so that the renewal of these licences is not affected by the amended act.

Madam Speaker, I commend the bill to honourable members.

Debate adjourned.

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