New Bulletin: Market Power Misdiagnosed
This bulletin from Frontier Economics examines the claims of market gouging by generators in the National Electricity Market following the closure of Hazelwood Power Station.
How Connectivity Enables Growth: New Frontier Economics report for Telenor released
Frontier Economics undertook research for Telenor that quantifies the impact of telecommunications sector in the five Asian markets that Telenor operates in.
New Bulletin: Writing down the NBN: Requisite or Red Herring?
A new bulletin from Frontier Economics looks at the issue of an NBN write-down of assets and explores the links between pricing, write-downs and value.
New Bulletin: Valuing the real impacts of rail
This bulletin from Frontier Economics discusses valuing the real impacts of rail and making a compelling business case for investment in this infrastructure.
Biggus stickus: implications of the Federal Government’s ‘Big Stick’ Legislation
Frontier Economics examined the implications of the government's "Big Stick" legislation for the Australian Energy Council.
Economic and regulatory barriers to cost-effective water recycling
Infrastructure NSW engaged Frontier Economics to advise on the optimum regulatory framework for the uptake of cost-effective recycled water initiatives.
Frontier Economics – Christmas holidays hours
The Australian offices of Frontier Economics will be closed from 5pm Monday 24 December 2018 and re-open Wednesday 2 January 2019 at 9am.
Impact of new technologies and policy changes on the National Electricity Market
The Australian Energy Council published a report prepared by Frontier Economics consultant, Rajat Sood, on the impact of various changes on the structure and competitiveness of the NEM.
Costs of excluding Huawei from 5G networks in Australia
Frontier Economics examined the economic impact of excluding Huawei from 5G network deployment in Australia.
Public Seminar | Changing Behaviour in the Public and Private Sectors
Frontier Economics is co-hosting a seminar given by Gus O'Donnell on Changing Behaviour in the Public and Private Sector on Wednesday 7 November 2018.
Submissions to the 2018 Productivity Commission Review of Airport Regulation
We discuss the ACCC's submission to the Productivity Commission's 2018 Review of Airports Regulation.
Philip Williams presents at Federal Court Judges competition law conference
Philip Williams presented on the relevance of economic efficiency in s46 to the Federal Court Judges competition law conference in Sydney today.
ACCC will not oppose two mergers between outdoor advertisers
The ACCC announced today that it has cleared two proposed acquisitions in the out-of-home advertising sector.
AEMO’s integrated system plan: forecasting and modelling questions and implications
This short note from Frontier Economics examines some of the modelling and forecasting assumptions in AEMO's integrated system plan and discusses the implications.
IPART publishes draft decision on its approach to financeability tests
The New South Wales Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal published today a draft decision on its 2018 review of its approach to conducting financeability tests.
Black(out) to the Future
Danny Price has written an article called Black(out) to the Future, looking at particular aspects of current energy policy in Australia and the potential for future blackouts to occur.
Energy Networks Australia explores regulatory changes to benefit consumers and businesses
Energy Networks Australia has published a discussion by Frontier Economics that discusses TOTEX and how this regulatory approach might benefit consumers and businesses.
Frontier Economics Singapore – new address
Frontier Economics has moved into new offices in Singapore. This is effective from 1 July 2018.
New briefing – NBN Wholesale Market Indicator Reports
A new briefing from Frontier Economics examines the latest edition of the ACCC's NBN Wholesale Market Indicators report.
The performance and impact of Australia’s airports since privatisation – report launch by A4ANZ
A report by the airlines group Airlines for Australia and New Zealand (A4ANZ) released today argues that Australian passengers and the economy are losing out to monopoly airports.
Federal Court hands down judgment in rate-rigging case
Justice Jonathan Beach of the Federal Court of Australia today handed down his judgment in the case brought by Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) against Westpac.
Merger authorisation processes in Australia – comment by Philip Williams
Philip Williams provided the comment on a paper given by Dave Poddar at the Competition Law Conference 2018.
ACCC publishes submissions to Digital Platforms Inquiry
The ACCC has published the submissions it received for the digital platforms inquiry.
Private sector participation in the water sector – optimal allocation of risk
Mike Woolston, Frontier Economics, has co-authored a paper on public private partnerships in the water sector, titled Private Sector Participation in the Water Sector - Optimal Allocation of Risk.
ACCC grants authorisation to jointly market NT gas
The ACCC announced today that it had granted authorisation to Central Petroleum and Macquarie Mereenie to jointly market gas from the Mereenie field.
ACCC grants interim authorisation to jointly market NT gas
The ACCC announced today that it had granted an interim authorisation to Central Petroleum and Macquarie Mereenie to begin negotiations for a joint supply arrangement for gas from the Mereenie field.
Danny Price presents at AARES Symposium
Danny Price, managing director of Frontier Economics, presented at the AARES Symposium, The Future of Australian Energy, in Adelaide today.
AEMC publishes Frontier Economics report on total expenditure regulatory frameworks
The Australian Energy Market Commission has published a report by Frontier Economics that surveys the use of total expenditure regulatory frameworks in a number of jurisdictions, including the [...]
South Australian Government announces virtual power plant
The South Australian government has announced a plan to create the world’s largest Virtual Power Plant.
BHP and Esso to separately market Gippsland Basin Gas
The ACCC accepted court enforceable undertakings from BHP Billiton Petroleum (Bass Strait) Pty Ltd (BHP) and Esso Australia Resources Pty Ltd (Esso) to separately market their share of gas [...]
How does taxation affect share prices?
Frontier Economics director Jason Hall is presenting today at the Australasian Finance and Banking Conference in Sydney. Jason will explain some recent work estimating the market value of [...]
New Bulletin: Quantitative analysis – quality assured?
This bulletin from Frontier Economics looks at econometrics and discusses some examples of when econometric modelling goes awry.
Infrastructure Australia report on reforming urban water released
Infrastructure Australia has released a report suggesting fundamental changes to the governance and regulation of Australia's urban water markets.
ACCC clears the proposed acquisition of OfficeMax by Platinum Equity
The ACCC has cleared the proposed acquisition of OfficeMax by Platinum Equity.
New Bulletin: Ride sharing and public transportation – the next big disruption
A new bulletin from Frontier Economics looks at ride sharing and its potential to transform (or disrupt) public transportation.
Vertical integration in the National Electricity Market
For the ACCC inquiry into electricity supply and prices, Frontier Economics reported on the impact of vertical integration on the bidding behavior of generators in the National Electricity Market.
Frontier Economics submits to senate committee that Parliament should reject Bill to abolish limited merits reviews of decisions by AER
Frontier Economics’ Managing Director, Danny Price, explains in this submission to the senate committee examining the Bill why abolition of LMR rights would harm, rather than promote, the [...]
The economic contribution of trademark-intensive industries in ASEAN countries
The International Trademark Association (INTA) has launched a report on the economic contribution of trademark-intensive industries to five ASEAN economies.
Victorian taxi and ride sharing reforms pass Parliament
The Victorian Parliament has passed legislation that will introduce Australia's most open and competitive commercial passenger vehicle market.
Frontier Economics M.D. Danny Price speaks at ABCC lunch on Finkel
Frontier Economics managing director Danny Price was a panellist at an Australian British Chamber of Commerce lunch discussing the Finkel Review.
Federal Court rejects application for Judicial Review of Tribunal re Port of Newcastle
The Federal Court rejects application for Judicial Review of Tribunal re Port of Newcastle.
Frontier Economics Singapore has a new address
Frontier Economics has moved into new, larger offices in Singapore following rapid growth in the past twelve months. This is effective from 31 July 2017.
The economic cost of child undernutrition in PNG
A report into the economic cost of child undernutrition in Papua New Guinea was released today by Save the Children and Frontier Economics.
ACCC wins against the airlines on market definition
The ACCC wins against the airlines on market definition in High Court ruling on air freight cartel.
IPART releases final report and determination for WaterNSW’s Rural Bulk Water services
IPART has released the final report and determination regarding WaterNSW’s prices for NSW Rural Bulk Water Services to be applied from 1 July 2017.
ACCC releases draft decision proposing to not declare a domestic mobile roaming service
The ACCC has released a draft decision proposing not to declare a domestic mobile roaming service.
Judge awards $30 million in damages to Bayer
Justice Jagot of the Federal Court of Australia has awarded damages of more than $25 million plus interest and costs to Bayer for Generic Health’s infringement of its patent.
IPART releases draft determination for WaterNSW’s Rural Bulk Water services
IPART has released their Draft Determination regarding WaterNSW’s prices for NSW Rural Bulk Water Services to be applied from 1 July 2017.
Social and Economic Impacts of the Basin Plan in Victoria
The Victorian Government today released its findings on the social and economic impacts of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan in Victoria.
Frontier Economics sponsors GCR Live Singapore 2-3 March 2017
Frontier Economics is an associate sponsor of the 2017 GCR Live conference in Singapore.
Planning and Assessment Commission rejects Drayton South Coal Project
The NSW Planning and Assessment Commission announced that it rejected ANGLO American's application to approve its Drayton South Coal Project.
New Frontier bulletin: Easy Target
The latest bulletin from Frontier Economics (Asia-Pacific), Easy Target, looks at the contribution of renewable energy in achieving Australia’s emissions target.
Ministers decide to retain and reform limited merits review regime
The COAG Energy Council has decided to retain but reform the limited merits review regime that applies to decisions of the Australian Energy Regulator.
Emissions intensity schemes – an interview with Danny Price
David Leitch from Reneweconomy interviews Danny Price on emissions intensity schemes for Radio ITK, a weekly podcast.
Australian Government consults on fixed line broadband reform package
The Australian Government has released details of its reform package on proposed changes to the regulatory regime applying to superfast broadband.
AEMC report on integration of energy and emissions reduction policy
The AEMC has provided advice to the COAG Energy Council that analyses the impacts and characteristics of mechanisms to reduce emissions in the electricity sector in line with Australia’s Paris [...]
Value capture: bypassing the infrastructure impasse? New Frontier bulletin
Australia is estimated to need at least $300 billion, and up to $700 billion, spent on infrastructure over the short to medium term if it is to maintain and improve its productivity and liveability.
Secondary Gas Trading Market Design in Singapore
Frontier Economics (leading a consortium including Norton Rose) has been retained by the Singapore Energy Market Authority to design a secondary gas trading market for Singapore.
Review of vesting contract regime in Singapore completed
The Singapore Energy Market Authority has completed a review of the vesting contract regime in Singapore and released the final report.
IPART Releases 2015 Household Survey Results
The New South Wales Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has released the results of its 2015 Household Survey. This was the seventh household survey since 1993 about energy and [...]
ACCC not to oppose WA news media acquisition
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has announced it will not oppose Seven West Media’s (SWM) proposed acquisition of The Sunday Times and perthnow.com.au from News Limited [...]
Victorian Government leases Port of Melbourne
The Victorian state government announced that the Lonsdale Consortium was the successful bidder for the 50-year lease for the commercial operations of the Port of Melbourne.
Victorian Government legalises Uber and other ride-sharing services
The Victorian Government today announced a package of regulatory reforms designed to reduce barriers to entry into the taxi and other commercial passenger vehicle market. This will formally allow [...]
Ministers announce new inquiry into limited merits review regime for regulated energy networks
On 19 August the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Energy Council decided that its Senior Committee of Officials would conduct a fresh review of the limited merits review (LMR) regime that [...]
ACCC not to oppose proposals for Port of Melbourne Lease
On 19 August the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Energy Council decided that its Senior Committee of Officials would conduct a fresh review of the limited merits review (LMR) regime that [...]
Frontier Economics supports International Clinical Trials Day
International Clinical Trials Day is celebrated around the world on or near May 20 each year. It celebrates the day that James Lind started what is often considered the first randomized clinical [...]
PanAust completes feasibility study for the PanAust copper and gold project
PanAust today announced it had completed the feasibility study on the Frieda River copper and gold project in Papua New Guinea.
Essential Services Commission (Victoria) releases draft report on taxi fares
The Essential Services Commission today released its draft report on the regulation of maximum taxi fares in Victoria.
Sudden impact – New Frontier Economics report
Frontier (Australia) has published a new report scrutinising the wholesale price impact of assisted closure of brown coal power stations in the National Electricity Market (NEM).
New Frontier report – Outcome of merits review of AER reset decisions for NSW and ACT networks
On 26 February 2016, the Australian Competition Tribunal (Tribunal) issued its judgment in relation to merits reviews, sought by consumer groups and several regulated energy networks, of recent [...]
Iron Mountain acquisition of Recall Holdings to go ahead
The ACCC has allowed Iron Mountain to acquire the Australian company Recall Holdings.
ACCC grants conditional authorisation to new booking app ihail
The ACCC granted conditional authorisation to a joint venture between taxi networks and other industry participants to launch and operate a new smartphone taxi booking app called ihail.
Australian government to legislate change to anti-competitive conduct provisions
The Turnbull government has announced it will implement the Harper Review’s recommendation to amend Section 46 of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, the provision which deals with misuse of [...]
The economic cost of the Syrian conflict
A report by World Vision and Frontier Economics examines the cost of conflict in Syria.
Unappealing Prospects | New Frontier Economics Bulletin
This bulletin from Frontier (Australia) explains why a merits review regime is essential to a well-functioning regulatory system.
Australian Competition Tribunal releases judgments on appeals against Australian Energy Regulator’s determinations
Today the Australian Competition Tribunal published its judgments on several merits reviews of revenue reset decisions made by the Australian Energy Regulator (AER).
Frontier looks at incentives and innovations in regulatory mechanisms
Last week, Frontier (Australia) hosted a series of seminars aimed at stimulating policy debate on the future of energy network regulation in Australia.
Frontier presents at annual Bannerman Competition Lecture
Dr Philip Williams delivered the 2016 Bannerman Competition Lecture.
ESC releases final report on Accident Towing Regulation in Victoria
The ESC today released its final report into the regulation of accident towing services in Victoria. Frontier Economics assisted the ESC with the report.
Major report calls for renewed reform in urban water
Infrastructure Partnerships Australia (IPA) and the Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA) jointly released the report entitled “Doing the important, as well as the urgent: reforming the [...]
Frontier presents at Water Pricing conference in Melbourne
Rob Francis, Associate Director at Frontier (Europe), spoke at the Essential Services Commission of Victoria (ESC) Water Pricing conference on 9 and 10 November 2015 in Melbourne
Levelling up – New Frontier Economics bulletin
In a new bulletin published today, Frontier (Australia) discusses why it is important to understand the economic value likely to be created by sharing services such as Uber and Airbnb.
ACCC releases final decision on copper network access prices
The ACCC today released its final decision on the prices that other operators pay to use Telstra’s copper network to provide telecommunications services to consumers.
Frontier report on Australia’s Direct Action Safeguards
Frontier looks at Australia's Direct Action Safeguards in a short report for clients.
ACCC will not oppose TPG Telecom’s proposed acquisition of iiNet
The ACCC today announced that it will not oppose TPG Telecom Limited’s proposed acquisition of iiNet Limited.
Australia targets emissions: 36% by 2030?
The Australian Government has today proposed a target of a 26%-28% reduction on 2005 emissions levels by 2030. Frontier (Australia) examines the context for comparing emissions targets and tasks.
Frontier presents at the ACCC Regulatory Conference 2015
Warwick Davis from Frontier (Australia) presented on net neutrality and the open internet at the ACCC Regulatory Conference 2015.
Frontier report on Optional Firm Access published by AEMC
The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) has been examining the merits of its Optional Firm Access (OFA) proposal over the past fifteen months. Frontier's response to the draft report has [...]
Networks NSW to appeal AER determinations
Networks NSW has announced that it intends to appeal some aspects of the Australian Energy Regulator’s (AER) determinations, made on 30 April 2015, on the revenues that these networks will be [...]
Frontier’s Competition Practice considers the Harper Review findings
Frontier's Competition Practice looks at the Harper Review's Final Report.
Frontier economist awarded university medal
Frontier (Australia) economist Alyssa Buchardt graduated from her degree of Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) at Monash University on Monday 11 May 2015.
Frontier Economics appoints new Chairman
The inaugural Chairman of Frontier (Australia), Dr. Philip Williams has stepped down from the position. Professor Stephen Gray has been appointed as Frontier’s new Chairman.
Is there a water infrastructure deficit in Australia? Frontier examines funding in the Water Journal
An article by Mike Woolston of Frontier (Australia), published in the February 2015 edition of the Australian Water Association’s Water Journal, looks at the issue of funding water infrastructure.
Frontier (Australia) addresses misleading electricity price comparisons
Frontier Economics (Australia) managing director Mr. Danny Price addresses misleading electricity price comparisons made during a recent NSW election debate.
Frontier participates in Australian water delegation to the USA
An Australian Water Association article in the February 2015 edition of the Water Journal rounds up issues behind the visit of a delegation of water professionals to California last December, [...]
ACCC releases draft decision on prices for access to Telstra’s copper network
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has issued its draft decision on the prices that other operators pay Telstra to use its copper network.
Frontier releases report examining AEMC’s Optional Firm Access Proposal
Frontier (Australia) today published a report prepared for a broad coalition of National Electricity Market participants on the Optional Firm Access proposal from the Australian Energy Market [...]
AEMC publishes its 2014 price trends report
The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) has released its 2014 Residential Electricity Price Trends report.
Frontier Economics welcomes SFG Consulting and new executive directors
Specialist financial economists Professor Stephen Gray and Dr Jason Hall from SFG Consulting Pty Ltd, along with Andrew Harpham from our energy team have joined Frontier (Australia) as executive [...]
AER releases draft decisions on revenues for NSW and ACT energy businesses
The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has released its draft decisions on the revenue proposals submitted by ACT and NSW distribution and transmission businesses, for the period commencing on 1 [...]
NZCC amends WACC percentile for price-quality regulation for electricity lines services and gas pipeline services
The New Zealand Commerce Commission has released its final determination on one aspect of its approach to estimating the Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) for regulated electricity lines [...]
Frontier presents at 12th Annual UniSA Competition and Consumer Workshop
Frontier Economics (Australia) Chairman Philip Williams presented at the 12th Annual University of South Australia Competition and Consumer Workshop, held 10-11 October 2014.
ACCC clears acquisition by Coles of 3 Supa IGA stores in WA
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission today announced that it will not oppose the proposed acquisition of three Progressive Supa IGA supermarkets by Coles/Wesfarmers.
Frontier presents at the 2014 Competition and Consumer workshop
Frontier (Australia) chairman Philip Williams presented at the Law Council of Australia 2014 Competition and Consumer Workshop, held on the 13th and 14th of September in Brisbane, Australia.
ACCC drops investigation of cinema acquisition
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission today discontinued its investigation into the acquisition of the Cinema Hyperplex in Loganholme, Brisbane.
Frontier report on regulation of urban water industry released
Today, the Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA) announced the release of the report “Improving Economic Regulation in the Urban Water Industry”.
ACCC clears acquisition by Aquis of Reef Hotel Casino in Cairns
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) announced that it will not oppose the bid by Aquis to acquire the Reef Hotel Casino in Cairns.
Expecting the unexpected – New Frontier Economics bulletin
The latest bulletin from Frontier Economics looks at the challenges of traffic forecasting.
Uber regulated? – New Frontier Economics bulletin
Frontier (Australia)’s latest bulletin considers how we should regulate new smartphone-based taxi apps like Uber.
Administration of Victoria’s Courts removed from Department of Justice
A new statutory authority, Court Services Victoria (CSV) takes over the administration of courts in the state of Victoria from today.
AGL given green light on proposed acquisition of Macquarie Generation
The Australian Competition Tribunal (ACT) today granted approval for AGL to pursue its proposed $1.5bn acquisition of Macquarie Generation, the largest generation portfolio in New South Wales.
Against the odds: Frontier bulletin on the value of teams at the World Cup
As excitement over the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil mounts, Frontier’s economists have been getting into the party spirit in the way that only economists can: by collecting data…
Pray for Rain – New Frontier Economics bulletin
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC’s) recent draft decision on how State Water’s volume risk should be managed departs from standard regulatory practice. This bulletin [...]
New Australia-Japan Free Trade Agreement
Trade negotiators from Japan and Australia today announced the successful conclusion of negotiations on an agreement, known as the Japan Australia Economic Partnership Agreement, that will lead [...]
Time for solar to pay its way
An article by Rajat Sood from Frontier (Australia) looks at the issue of tariffs in regard to solar-voltaic panels.
Frontier Chairman awarded honour in Australia Day honours list
Frontier (Australia) Chairman Philip Williams has been named a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2014 Australia Day honours list.
World Trade Organisation adopts new trade rules
At the 9th Ministerial Conference in Bali, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) agreed on new rules to simplify customs procedures and facilitate trade.
Australian Energy Market Operator publishes Electricity Action Plan for 2014
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) today released the 2014 National Electricity Forecasting Report (NEFR) Action Plan.
Frontier announces new Director
Frontier (Australia) today announces the promotion of James Allan to Director.
Australian Energy Regulator releases Draft Rate of Return Guidelines
On 30 August the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) released its Draft Rate of Return Guidelines. The AER is responsible for setting the regulated tariffs charged by gas and electricity networks [...]
ACCC permits Woolworths’ acquisition of three supermarkets
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) today announced it would allow Woolworths to acquire three Supa IGA supermarkets in Queensland.
The efficacy of the Australian carbon pricing scheme
This paper from Frontier (Australia) examines some facts around the likely effectiveness of the Australian Government’s carbon pricing scheme, in terms of its contribution towards reducing [...]
Did a carbon price cause reductions in emissions in Australia?
This client briefing from Frontier (Australia) investigates the Government's claim that a 7.7% drop in CO2 emissions is evidence that their carbon price scheme, implemented in mid-2012, is working.
ACCC permits Woolworths’ acquisition of an independent supermarket
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) today announced that it would not oppose Woolworths' proposed acquisition of the independent Supa IGA supermarket in the Canberra suburb [...]
Frontier report on giving customers a greater voice in urban water sector
Frontier (Australia) has undertaken a review of urban water customer choice options, policy drivers and regulatory instruments for the National Water Commission.
Taxi reform to commence in Victoria
The Australian state Government of Victoria today published its response to the recommendations of the Victorian Taxi Industry Inquiry, that it set up in March 2011.
IPART publishes draft decision on regulated retail electricity prices
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of New South Wales (IPART) has published its draft decision on regulated retail electricity prices for 2013-14 to 2015-16.
Frontier speaks at International Bar Association Conference in Sydney
Richard York of Frontier (Australia) today spoke at the International Bar Association 9th Competition Mid-Year Conference in Sydney, Australia.
Trading on illusions – client briefing on Australia innovation strategy
Frontier’s latest client briefing discusses the Australian Government's Industry and Innovation Strategy.
FIT for purpose? – Frontier Economics client briefing
Frontier’s latest client briefing considers a recent World Trade Organization (WTO) ruling against the use of local content rules in feed-in tariffs (FIT) used by the State of Ontario, Canada.
Victorian Taxi Industry Inquiry Final Report Released
The final report of the Victorian Taxi Industry Inquiry was tabled in Parliament today. The Inquiry, looking into all aspects of the Victorian taxi industry, ran for 16 months and included [...]
Regulator commences retail electricity prices review in New South Wales
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of New South Wales (IPART) has today commenced its review and determination of regulated retail electricity prices for 2013-14 to 2015-16.
No need for another regulator for media acquisitions
Frontier (Australia) Chairman, Philip Williams, has commented in The Australian today on whether there is a need for an additional regulator to police media acquisitions.
Frontier reviews costs and benefits of smart metering
The implementation of smart metering in Australia is currently the focus of considerable attention.
Australia’s Public Infrastructure Assets Under Scrutiny
Infrastructure Australia, the Government’s advisory body on infrastructure, today published a report “Australia's Public Infrastructure - Part of the Answer to Removing Infrastructure Deficit”.
Sonic acquires pathology business in Western Australia
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) today announced that Sonic Healthcare Limited (Sonic) could buy one of the pathology businesses it wished to buy from the troubled [...]
Wholesale electricity cost allowances changing in South Australia
The Essential Services Commission of South Australia today released for public consultation a draft determination to change the wholesale electricity cost allowance.
Australian High Court quashes Tribunal decision on access to iron ore rail lines
The High Court of Australia (‘High Court’) today ruled that the Australian Competition Tribunal (‘the Tribunal’) had exceeded its powers in its decision regarding access to railway lines by [...]
AEMC releases Power of Choice Review Draft Report
The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) today called for comment on a draft report proposing new ways for consumers to control their use of electricity and manage their bills.
Sportsbet challenges discrimination by Harness Racing Victoria
Sportsbet, the internet bookmaker based in Darwin, has claimed that various State governments have allowed racing regulators to levy discriminatory charges against it in order to prevent leakage [...]
Measure for measure – Frontier Economics bulletin
Do estimates of virtual water and food miles really help consumers to make environmentally friendly choices? The latest bulletin from Frontier (Australia) considers these questions.
ACCC authorises NBNCo/Optus HFC customers deal
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) today approved an agreement between NBNCo and SingTel Optus for the migration of Optus’ hybrid fibre coaxial (HFC) customers to the [...]
Impact on ten APEC economies of changes to EU classifications regarding Nickel
The Mining Task Force of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) has published a report on the impact for ten APEC economies of changes to European Union (EU) classifications regarding [...]
Australia’s carbon pricing scheme commences
The long debate surrounding carbon pricing in Australia entered a new phase on Sunday, 1 July 2012 with the commencement of Australia’s carbon pricing scheme at a $23/tonne CO2-e starting price. [...]
NSW electricity retail prices increase following introduction of carbon price
Regulated electricity tariffs in New South Wales increased today, following a decision by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) as part of its annual review of electricity prices.
NCC favours ‘no coverage’ application of Australia Pacific LNG pipeline
The Australian National Competition Council (NCC) today published a draft recommendation in favour of granting the ‘no coverage’ application made by the proponents of the proposed Australia [...]
AEMC rejects call for intrusive bidding rules
The Australian Energy Market Commission today published a draft determination rejecting a rule change request by Major Energy Users Inc (MEU) that sought to restrict generator bidding behaviour [...]
Victorian Taxi Inquiry publishes draft recommendations
The Victorian Taxi Industry Inquiry today published its draft recommendations on the reform of the Victorian taxi and hire car industry.
ACCC clears AGL acquisition of Loy Yang A power station
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission today announced that it would not oppose the proposed acquisition by AGL Energy Ltd of Great Energy Alliance Corporation Pty Limited, which owns [...]
National rail safety regulatory regime on track
States met today at the 2nd Standing Council on Transport and Infrastructure (SCOTI) to consider a range of major transport reforms.
Starting over: the future of the media conglomerate
The rise of the internet has drastically reduced the costs of media production and paved the way for the entry of new firms into a traditionally highly concentrated industry. This bulletin from [...]
Jet fuel supply services at Sydney Airport escape access regulation
The Australian Treasurer decided today that jet fuel supply infrastructure services at Sydney Airport should not be subject to a third party access regime.
Australian National Water Commission launches water and climate change report
The Australian National Water Commission today published “Water policy and climate change in Australia”. The report examines interactions between water policies and both climate change mitigation [...]
Utility re-merger would be step backwards for energy sector in Western Australia
The Western Australia (WA) Independent Power Association today released a report examining a proposal to re-aggregate the state-owned energy retailer, Synergy, and the state-owned generator, [...]
Australian National Water Commission launches water trading report
The Australian National Water Commission today published “Impacts of water trading in the southern Murray–Darling Basin between 2006-07 and 2010-11”.
ACCC approves Foxtel’s acquisition of Austar
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has allowed subscription TV provider Foxtel to acquire another provider of subscription TV services, Austar.
Constructive Criticism
Australia, New Zealand and the UK have adopted different approaches to regulating airports. However, all place some reliance on direct negotiations or ‘constructive engagement’ between an airport [...]
Frontier reports on ‘fair and reasonable’ solar feed-in tariffs
Until recently, customers in New South Wales (NSW) who install solar photovoltaic units (PV units) received very generous feed-in tariffs through the NSW Government’s Solar Bonus Scheme.
ACCC lifts exemptions on wholesale voice services
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) today released a decision to lift exemptions applying to certain wholesale voice services provided over Telstra’s fixed line network.
Government releases National Energy Security Assessment
The Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism (DRET) today released the National Energy Security Assessment, alongside the Commonwealth Government’s Energy White Paper.
Water markets in Australia – a short history
Australia’s National Water Commission has today released Water Markets in Australia - a short history, which documents the evolution of water markets in the country.
Murray-Darling Authority releases draft Basin Plan
The Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) today released its draft Basin Plan.
Frontier (Australia) is a silver sponsor for the Otis Foundation
Frontier (Australia) is supporting the excellent work of The Otis Foundation, by taking a silver sponsorship for The Otis Foundation CBD Energy Ball.
Google It – Frontier Economics bulletin
Google Inc’s recently proposed acquisition of Motorola Mobility Holdings Inc raises some important economic issues about the merits or otherwise of vertical integration between device, platform [...]
Frontier (Australia) expands transport capability
Frontier (Australia) welcomes Anna Wilson to expand our capacity in the transport sector.
Frontier submission to Senate Select Committee on carbon tax pricing mechanisms
The Australian Senate Select Committee on Scrutiny of New Taxes has been inquiring into a range of carbon tax pricing mechanisms.
Federal Court of Australia dismisses claims against Stanwell Corporation Ltd
Today, the Federal Court of Australia dismissed claims by the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) that Stanwell Corporation Limited, a Queensland generator, had breached the ‘good faith’ provisions [...]
Queensland builders found guilty of price-fixing
The Federal Court of Australia today found that Queensland builders had engaged in price fixing by requesting and exchanging cover prices when tendering for government building projects.
New Zealand air freight decision
An international air freight cartel, involving airlines from New Zealand, Japan, the UAE, Malaysia, Korea, Thailand, Singapore and Australia, has been the subject of proceedings in courts around [...]
Australian Federal Court finds gambling regulations to be anti-competitive
The Federal Court today issued its decision in the case of Sportsbet Pty Ltd v State of Victoria.
Benefit-Cost Analysis of Locust Control
Following the Spring 2010 outbreak of locusts across the state of Victoria, Frontier (Australia) was engaged by the Victorian Department of Primary Industries (DPI) to review locust-control [...]
Review of water pricing in Australia
Today the National Water Commission launched their review of pricing reform in the Australian water sector and supporting reports.
Urban Water in Australia – Future Directions
Today the National Water Commission (NWC) launched Urban Water in Australia: Future Directions to promote reform in the urban water sector.
Where convergence exposes divergence – Frontier Economics bulletin
Communications, media and entertainment services are converging fast, with the digitisation of content and the emergence of new delivery platforms transforming consumer choices and shifting [...]
Green is good – Frontier Economics bulletin
Frontier (Australia)'s bulletin looks at a claim made by the Climate Institute, an Australian interest group.
Amcor Visy cartel class action settled in Australia
Today, the Federal Court class action brought against Visy and Amcor by victims of the cartel that the two firms operated in the supply of cardboard boxes, was settled.
ACCC begins new telecommunications access regime in Australia
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has issued interim access determinations for the six key fixed line telecommunications services under the new telecommunications access [...]
Australia Government inquires in carbon tax pricing mechanisms
The Australian Senate Select Committee on Scrutiny of New Taxes has been looking at a number of proposals, including a possible carbon tax.
Australian regulator determines Victorian electricity prices
The Australia Energy Regulator (AER) has handed down its final determination in the Victorian electricity distribution price review for 2011-15.
Productivity Commission proposes changes to rural research and development
The Australian Government's Productivity Commission (PC) has today released its draft report on Rural Research and Development Corporations (RDCs).
Third time lucky – Frontier Economics bulletin
Frontier (Australia)’s bulletin discusses some of the controversy around the latest NZCC inquiry into whether to regulate the service, and consider the likely next steps in New Zealand.
What is sport worth to Australia?
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) held its biennial conference, Our Sporting Futures, on 29 and 30 July 2010.
Australian Competition Tribunal declares access to railway lines in the Pilbara
The Australian Competition Tribunal announced on 1 July 2010 that it would declare access to two privately-owned railway lines carrying iron ore from the Pilbara region in Western Australia to [...]
Impacts of water trading in the southern Murray Darling Basin
Today the National Water Commission (NWC) launched a report into the impacts of water trading in the southern Murray Darling Basin.
ACCC clears Australia Post price increase
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) today announced it would not object to Australia Post’s Notification of price increases for the letter services over which it has a [...]
Gyms to pay more for music in exercise classes
The Australian Copyright Tribunal decided this week to significantly increase the fee that Australian gyms must pay in order to play music recordings in exercise classes.
Australian sport secures biggest funding boost in its history
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) was a major winner in the Australian Federal Budget, delivered on Tuesday 11 May. The ASC received funding of $325 million over four years for their [...]
Economic contribution of sport to Australia
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) have published a report into the economic impact of sport in Australia. This was commissioned in anticipation of an Australian Government review of sports [...]
ACCC publishes response to paper on access pricing principles
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has published submissions in response to its discussion paper on access pricing principles for fixed line telecommunications services.
International drivers of rural R&D
Frontier (Australia) was recently commissioned by the Australian Rural R&D Council to investigate the main drivers shaping research and development (R&D) policies and institutions internationally
Draft determination on electricity prices for NSW
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has released its draft determination on electricity prices for New South Wales.
ACCC objects to Australia Post’s proposed price increase
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) today issued its view objecting to Australia Post's draft proposal to increase the prices of the letter services over which it has a [...]
ACCC to oppose the acquisition of Mobil retail assets by Caltex
The ACCC has announced that it will oppose the proposed acquisition of Mobil Oil Australia’s retail assets by Caltex Australia Limited.
Evaluation of the revised Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme
On 18 October, the Coalition (Australia) put forward a set of amendments to the Australian Commonwealth Government’s proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS). In response, on 24 [...]
Second biennial assessment of progress in the National Water Initiative
The Australian National Water Commission has released its second biennial assessment of progress in the implementation of the National Water Initiative.
The impact of volumetric restrictions on water entitlement trade
Frontier Economics has completed a report on volumetric trading limits in intra-regional trade in water access entitlements for the ACCC.
Adapting to climate change: assessing the economic benefits
Frontier (Australia) has completed a report for the Victorian Department of Treasury and Finance on adaptation responses to climate change.
New Frontier bulletin: Pricing it so they shall come
Frontier Economics has published a new bulletin, Pricing it so they shall come, which looks at efficient pricing structures for wholesale access services in telecommunications.
The Economic Impact of the CPRS and Modifications to the CPRS
Frontier Economics has released a report that provides independent modelling of the Government's proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS).
ACCC allows creation of largest operator in internet and phone gambling
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission announced that it would not be opposing the acquisition of International All Sports by Sportsbet Pty Ltd. Sportsbet's model is entirely based on [...]
Impacts of climate change policies on electricity retailers
For its Review of Energy Market Frameworks in Light of Climate Change Policies, the Australian Energy Market Commission has released a report prepared by Frontier Economics on the impact of [...]
The AEMC releases interim report on the impact of climate change policies
Frontier Economics has submitted two reports to the AEMC's review on how the Australian Government's Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme and expanded Renewable Energy Target scheme may affect [...]
Ambush Marketing Legislation Review released
The Australian Government has released the final report of the Review of Ambush Marketing Legislation.
Expert report on proposals to build a National Broadband Network of Australia
Today the Expert Panel commissioned by the Australian Government to review proposals to build the National Broadband Network provided its report to the Minister for Broadband, Communications and [...]
The AEMC releases Congestion Management Review findings
The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) has released the final report of its Congestion Management Review.
Australian National Water Commission looks to the future of urban water pricing
The Australian Government's National Water Commission has released a position statement on urban water pricing.
Australian Government seeks proposals to build a national broadband network
The Australian Government announced the release of an RFP to roll-out and operate a national broadband network.
Victorian State Government announces gambling reforms
The Government of Victoria has announced the outcome of its review of gaming licensing arrangements. The current duopoly control of the state's poker machines will end and venues will compete in [...]
NZCC granted leave to appeal High Court decision re Woolworths acquisition
The New Zealand Commerce Commission was granted leave to appeal the earlier decision of the High Court that granted a clearance for Woolworths to proceed in its bid for The Warehouse Group.
Frontier to advise NSW government on electricity asset sale
On 28 December 2007 the New South Wales (NSW) Treasurer announced that Frontier (Australia) will be one of the companies advising the New South Wales government on the A$15 billion-plus partial [...]
Woolworths acquisition of The Warehouse Group in New Zealand cleared
On 4 December 2007, the New Zealand High Court released its decision in a major merger battle between Woolworths (the Australian supermarket operator) and the New Zealand Commerce Commission.
Federal Court of Australia confirms fine on fishery cartel
The Federal Court of Australia in Melbourne has ratified financial penalties for price-fixing that had been agreed between the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and a group of [...]
IPART retail electricity tariff review
Frontier (Australia) has been engaged by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of NSW (IPART) to recommend allowances for energy purchase costs and for retail costs and margins for [...]
New paper published on competition law
Philip Williams, a director of Frontier (Melbourne) has co-authored with Andrew Harpham and Donald Robertson a paper entitled "The Competition Law Analysis of Collaborative Structures".
Australia has options to reduce CO2 emissions at affordable cost
Australians could pay as little as $250 each to achieve a 40 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from the country's electricity generation industry by 2030, a new study has found.
Allocating slots in fruit and vegetable market
Frontier (Australia) has been engaged by the Department of Primary Industry to provide advice on methods to allocate sites to new tenants in a new wholesale fruit and vegetable market.
Wastewater interconnection services and transportation services by Sydney Water
The Australian Competition Tribunal has decided to uphold the appeal by Services Sydney against the Minister's decision not to declare certain services provided by Sydney Water. This means that [...]
Airside Services at Sydney Airport subjected to regulation
The Australian Competition Tribunal has decided to uphold the appeal by Virgin Blue against the Minister's decision not to "declare" the Airside Service at Sydney Airport. This means that the [...]
Rowing success for Frontier Economics
A crew from Frontier Economics won the inaugural Ruyton Regatta held on the Maribyrnong River Melbourne.
ACCC regulatory conference 2005
Dr. Philip Williams, chairman of Frontier Economics, participated in the sixth Australian Competition and Consumer Commission regulatory conference.
IAEE conference – Globalization of Energy: Markets, Technology and Sustainability
Frontier Economics presented at the 28th Annual IAEE International Conference, held from 3rd June to 6th June 2005 in Taipei.
Pricing policies for a rural water authority
Goulburn-Murray Water retained Frontier (Australia) to undertake an independent review of its pricing methodologies and models.
Vertical integration and market power in electricity
Frontier (Melbourne & Sydney) advised the successful protagonist of the first major vertical merger in the Australian National Electricity Market (NEM). Australian Gas Light Company (AGL), a [...]
Promoting competition in Sydney sewerage markets
Frontier (Australia) were asked by solicitors for Sydney Water to prepare a report on the promotion of competition in Sydney water markets.
Australian Economics Society Conference 2005
Frontier Economics Australia is a sponsor of the Australian Economics Society Conference to be held in Melbourne 26-28 September 2005.
Australian Competition Tribunal refuses to authorise zero interchange for EFTPOS
The Australian Competition Tribunal today released its decision refusing to authorise arrangements among Australian banks to reduce the interbank fees on EFTPOS transactions to zero.