NER 5.3.4A

The Automatic Access Standards workstream focused on improving transparency and consistency of access standard negotiations under NER 5.3.4A to support a common understanding of how automatic access standards are considered during performance standard negotiations. 

The workstream delivered the NER 5.3.4A Fact Sheet to promote more efficient, evidence-based and collaborative negotiations of Access Standards under the National Electricity Rules (NER) 5.3.4A.

The Fact Sheet outlines four principles for AEMO, NSPs and proponents:

• alignment with the National Electricity Objective
• evidence-based negotiations
• fit-for-purpose approach
• collaborative problem solving and early engagement.

It provides practical guidance for proponents on the evidence needed to support access standard proposals and the requirement to be “as close as practicable” to the automatic access standard, and how NSPs and AEMO should assess and respond to access standard proposals.

Background

In July 2025, AEMO commenced the Automatic Access Standards workstream with the aim of improving the efficiency of the process for negotiating access standards.

Industry feedback identified that while NER 5.3.4A provides a framework for negotiating access standards where an Automatic Access Standard (AAS) cannot be met, participants often faced uncertainty regarding the requirement for a proposed Negotiated Access Standard (NAS) to be "as close as practicable" to the corresponding AAS. Stakeholders also highlighted process inefficiencies, inconsistent interpretation of requirements and varying expectations regarding the evidence needed to support proposals.

To address these challenges, AEMO worked with industry through a co-design process involving developers, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), consultants, Network Service Providers (NSPs) and the Clean Energy Council (CEC). The objective was to develop practical guidance that supports more efficient, evidence-based and collaborative negotiations while maintaining the requirements of the NER.

Webinar

AEMO hosted a webinar on 31 August 2026 to introduce and explain the NER 5.3.4A Fact Sheet and how it can be used by proponents in preparing and submitting their proposals for negotiated access standards.