The Department is engaged in several initiatives to ensure that disruptions to energy production and distribution are addressed promptly and effectively. Emergency response plans are in place for the liquid fuels, gas and electricity sectors. These plans identify supply options, facilitate communication and ensure that effective approaches are in place in the event of a major disruption.
Liquid Fuels
The Department provides secretariat support for the
National Oil Supplies Emergency Committee (NOSEC). NOSEC manages the National Liquid Fuel Emergency Response Plan (NLFERP) which details how Australian governments would respond to a fuel disruption with national implications.
Gas
The Department provides secretariat support and is also currently the Chair of the
National Gas Emergency Response Advisory Committee (NGERAC). NGERAC advises the
Ministerial Council on Energy (MCE) on efficient and effective responses to major multi-jurisdictional natural gas supply shortages to maintain the integrity of the gas supply system and overall public health and safety.
Electricity
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO)
is the market operator of the National Electricity Market and the system operator of the national electricity grid. A key responsibility of NEMMCO is to ensure the reliability and security of the power system, including interfacing with jurisdictions with regards to emergency response protocols. NEMMCO provides leadership and decision making during a power system emergency to ensure cooperation between industry participants and coordination with jurisdictional authorities.