April 2012 start date for Clean Energy Regulator

The Clean Energy Regulator, the new administrative body responsible for the carbon-pricing mechanism, will begin operation from 2 April 2012.

The Regulator will also be responsible for administering the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting System, the Renewable Energy Target and the Carbon Farming Initiative.

The Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Greg Combet, said this timeframe will allow administrative, financial and governance arrangements to be developed before the initial carbon price liability period commences on 1 July 2012.

“Work is already underway to identify the Chair and other members of the Board for the Clean Energy Regulator,” Mr Combet said.

“The government will engage with them early to achieve a smooth transition for the establishment of the Regulator and the carbon price.”

Until the establishment of the Regulator, the regulatory functions for the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Scheme, the Renewable Energy Target and the Carbon Farming Initiative will continue under existing arrangements.

Mr Combet said the government is committed to working closely with companies that will be covered by the clean energy legislation. “We want to ensure companies understand their obligations and have the information they need.”

“The government will continue consulting with liable entities as we develop the processes and procedures for the administration of the carbon price mechanism,” he said.

Liable entities can find more information about their obligations at www.climatechange.gov.au.

Information about the Clean Energy Future package is available at www.cleanenergyfuture.gov.au.