On 24 September 2025, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) issued a draft determination proposing to grant authorisation for the South Australian Chamber of Mines and Energy Inc (SACOME) and its members to form a joint electricity buying group.

The proposed authorisation would allow members to pool their electricity demand, conduct a joint tender, and enter into individual supply agreements with the selected electricity supplier. This initiative aims to enhance the bargaining power of the members in the electricity market.

The ACCC has suggested granting this authorisation for a period of 12 years, which would provide long-term stability for the buying group.

Additionally, the ACCC has granted interim authorisation, enabling SACOME and its members to begin the joint tender process, negotiate supply terms, and share necessary information for compiling the tender.

The ACCC is currently inviting submissions regarding the draft determination, with a deadline set for 8 October 2025, before making a final decision on the matter.