Downloads
The Australian Government asked the Competition Review to assess whether Australia’s merger control system is fit for purpose.
Government response
In response to the review, the Australian Government will make Australia’s merger control system stronger, simpler, targeted, faster and transparent.
ACCC administration changes
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) will be empowered and resourced to administer a mandatory and suspensory administrative system from 1 January 2026.
Community expectation
This will meet community expectations that the ACCC can detect and stop harmful anti‑competitive mergers.
The new system will be stronger for consumers, fairer for business and better for competition.
It will drive improvements in productivity, put downward pressure on prices and deliver more choice for Australians dealing with cost‑of‑living pressures.
Public consultation
Public consultation feedback from 20 November 2023 to 19 January 2024 informed the design of merger reform.
For full details see: Merger reform consultation.
New system
Details of the new system will be finalised following further consultation with stakeholders as we move through the legislative process.
If you have questions, you can contact the Competition Taskforce at competitiontaskforce@treasury.gov.au.