The competition regulator is considering new chlorine approvals for the water industry. 

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has announced a proposal to authorise the Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA) and its members to engage in collective negotiations to secure the supply chain of gaseous chlorine in Australia. 

This authorisation, if granted, would be in effect for a period of five years.

Gaseous chlorine is a crucial chemical used by water authorities across the nation to ensure the provision of safe drinking water.
This move by the ACCC is seen as a strategic step towards enhancing the resilience of Australia’s water treatment resources, ensuring the continued safety and reliability of drinking water supplies across the country.

The ACCC's proposed authorisation will allow WSAA and its members, which include both current and future entities, to collectively negotiate with suppliers of packaged gaseous chlorine. 

This effort aims to bolster the negotiation power of these entities, potentially leading to the establishment of a new packaging facility within Australia or arrangements for the importation of the chemical.

In addition to the proposal, the ACCC has granted an interim authorisation which enables the WSAA and its members to start negotiations and share information related to the supply of gaseous chlorine. 

However, it restricts them from finalising any contracts while the substantive application is under review.

The commission has invited public submissions on the draft determination by May 3, 2024, before making a final decision. Information on the application and submission process is available on the ACCC’s public register.