About the Tasmanian Economic Regulator
The Tasmanian Economic Regulator is an independent body that oversees key industries in Tasmania to ensure fair pricing, reliable services and consumer protection.
The Regulator is supported by the Office of the Tasmanian Economic Regulator (OTTER).
What we do
We regulate industries where competition is limited, including:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water and Sewerage
- Taxi services
- Compulsory third party insurance.
Our goal is to protect the long-term interests of Tasmanian consumers by ensuring services are fairly priced, high quality and dependable.
We also investigate complaints about government businesses that may be competing unfairly with private companies.
Leadership
Mr Joe Dimasi has been the Tasmanian Economic Regulator since 2015. He brings extensive experience from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and is a Professorial Fellow at Monash Business School.
Our Independence
The Regulator operates independently and makes decisions fairly without bias. While the Regulator is not subject to ministerial direction (except under specific legislation like the Gas Industry Act), they may be asked by the Treasurer to report on certain matters.
The Regulator is also required to keep sensitive information confidential and is accountable to the Tasmanian Ombudsman.
Planning and Accountability
OTTER uses an Annual Operating Plan to guide its work and ensure it supports the Regulator in meeting its objectives.