Alongside the commencement of its initial research projects, GIRA has now formally established three Working Groups to guide the development of its research program.
These Working Groups bring together stakeholders from across GIRA’s membership base—including transmission and distribution pipeline owner/operators, design consultants, construction contractors, and technical regulators. Their role is to ensure that GIRA’s research priorities remain industry-driven, targeted, and aligned with the practical challenges facing the sector.
Infrastructure Development Working Group (WG1)
The Infrastructure Development Working Group (WG1) is focused on research that supports the planning, design, and delivery of new pipeline infrastructure.
Key areas of interest include design methodologies, materials engineering, welding, and construction practices. Importantly, WG1 also considers the evolving role of existing infrastructure, including research to support the repurposing of gas pipelines for alternative services such as hydrogen and carbon dioxide transport.
This work is critical in ensuring that new and adapted infrastructure is fit-for-purpose in a transitioning energy system.
Infrastructure Operations Working Group (WG2)
The Infrastructure Operations Working Group (WG2) is centred on the performance, safety, and reliability of Australia’s existing pipeline networks.
The group is identifying research priorities that address operational challenges such as integrity management—including corrosion, crack detection, and repair techniques—as well as emissions management, geohazards, and third-party interference.
WG2’s work will help operators optimise asset performance while maintaining safety and compliance in an increasingly complex operating environment.
Strategic Research Working Group (WG3)
The Strategic Research Working Group (WG3) has a broader, forward-looking mandate.
With flexibility to pursue high-impact topics, WG3 focuses on research that supports long-term industry strategy and helps manage the uncertainty associated with the energy transition. This includes improving understanding of the techno-economics of the energy system, clarifying the role of gas within future energy scenarios, and informing both government policy and public discourse.
WG3 will also play a key role in supporting the development and scale-up of renewable gas production and utilisation across Australia.
Industry Collaboration at the Core
The establishment of these Working Groups reinforces GIRA’s commitment to industry-led research and collaboration.
By bringing together expertise from across the value chain, GIRA is ensuring that its research program remains practical, relevant, and capable of delivering real-world impact.
Stakeholders interested in learning more or contributing to the Working Groups are encouraged to contact GIRA’s Research Manager:
Doug Proud
doug.proud@gira.org.au