Prime Infrastructure

WestNet Rail

WestNet Rail is a rail infrastructure owner and rail access provider operating in Western Australia (WA) with a long-term arrangement to lease track from the WA Government. WestNet Rail operates approximately 5,100 kilometres standard, narrow and dual gauge network in the south-west of WA which serves as a crucial transport link in the region. WestNet Rail is a regulated monopoly with largely stable revenue streams through long-term access agreements with its blue-chip customer base. Revenue is derived from access charges paid by rail operators or directly from underlying customers.

 

WestNet Rail

Description

A rail infrastructure owner and access provider

Operating Platform 

Fee For Service 

Location

Western Australia, Australia 

Investment

100%

Regulatory Environment

WestNet Rail is regulated by the WA Economic Regulation Authority. Regulation is based on revenue floors and ceilings for line segments. The next floor and ceiling review is due in June 2012. WACC is reset annually using an approved methodology which is reviewed every five years

Customer Base

Access agreements with strong blue chip customers (including long term access agreement with Queensland Rail) 

Asset Age & Condition

Varies across line segments.
Maintenance and renewal obligations are mandated by the lease with the WA Government

Utilisation

Varies across line segments. Ample spare capacity on lighter gauge lines, and ability to increase capacity to meet demand.

Key Drivers

WA economy, global economic activity and commodity demand.  Mine expansion activities of current users, and addition of new users.


For further information click on link to WestNet Rail website:  http://www.wnr.com.au/