Maintenance cost claim

Each year we approve actual maintenance costs for each of Aurizon Network’s coal systems.

In our assessment, we focus on the extent to which Aurizon Network’s actual maintenance costs, for each coal system, are consistent with the approved maintenance strategy and budget (MSB), subject to identified materiality thresholds.

Where the maintenance cost claim is consistent with the approved MSB, we will approve Aurizon Network’s actual expenditure. Where there are material differences, we assess those maintenance costs and activities on the basis of prudency and efficiency. We have regard to Aurizon Network’s obligations to ensure that committed capacity is delivered and to coordinate outages with other supply chain participants.

The assessment framework is set out in clause 7A.11.5 of the 2017 access undertaking.

Maintenance cost claim 2022–23

On 12 September 2023, Aurizon Network submitted its maintenance cost claim for 2022–23. We received no comments on this matter by the due date for submissions, which was 28 September 2023.

We approved Aurizon Network’s cost claim on 19 October 2023.

Maintenance cost claim 2021–22

On 23 September 2022, Aurizon Network submitted its maintenance cost claim for 2021–22.  We received no comments on this matter by the due date for submissions, which was 10 October 2022.

On 16 November 2022, we approved Aurizon Network’s maintenance cost claim.

Maintenance cost claim 2020–21

Aurizon Network submitted its maintenance cost claim for 2020–21 on 29 September 2021. We invited submissions from stakeholders but did not received any.

We approved the 2020-21 maintenance cost claim on 18 November 2021.