"While there was an expectation that the Final Decision may be released on 30 April 2003, and substantial progress has been made toward its completion, there are a number of issues requiring further attention before the final decision can be released," said Gas Access Regulator, Ken Michael.

"It is currently envisaged that the Final Decision will be released during the week commencing Monday, 5 May 2003," he said.

OffGAR confirmed last week it had retained legal firm, Corrs Chambers Wesgarth, to ensure the decision was made on sound legal principles, possibly spurred on by the news that Epic Energy had dusted off a four year old, $50 million claim against the State Government in preparation of an unfavourable decision.

The delay has sparked speculation that the decision will not go the way of Epic and that OffGAR has delayed announcing the result until it has prepared adequate legal defences.