13960 (2025). Camilla Belich to the Minister for Energy

13960 (2025). Camilla Belich to the Minister for Energy: What is the total amount, if any, spent on external legal advice or law firms by any agencies under the Minister’s responsibility since 27 November 2023, broken down by firm and purpose?

Hon Simon Watts: "As Minister of Energy, I have no responsibility for any government departments or Ministries. In respect of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, I refer the Member to the Minister for Economic Growth’s answer to written parliamentary question 13954 (2025). With regard to Crown entities under the energy portfolio, I am advised since 27 November 2023 the Electricity Authority has spent $1,200,029 on external legal advice. We create secondary legislation through the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010 and also have enforcement powers and take cases to the Rulings Panel where appropriate. We use external lawyers to certify Code amendments, assist with enforcement as necessary and advise as required on proposed Code changes, our statutory framework and contractual matters. We have a separate litigiation fund for challenges to decisions made by the Authority. For EECA Refer to response to PQ12950(2025)."