PIAC response to issues paper for ECA grants review

This submission responded to an issues paper released by Energy Consumers Australia (ECA), seeking stakeholder feedback on aspects of its grants program. In the submission, PIAC commented on three key issues. Firstly, PIAC recommended a slight change to ECA’s proposed definition of effective advocacy. PIAC’s recommendation was that the definition should emphasise the pursuit of improved outcomes in the long-term interest of consumers. Secondly, PIAC expressed support for ECA’s proposed grants program structure, including the proposal for drawing a continued distinction between advocacy and research grants. In addition, PIAC recommended that the cap for proposed CEO grants (which could be made with a simpler application process) be set at $10,000. Finally, PIAC expressed support for the proposed grants program design. In particular, PIAC supported the proposal that grants be assessed against ECA’s strategic priorities, which give effect to the pursuit of improvements in outcomes in the long-term interests of consumers.