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ARTICLE · 30 NOVEMBER 2017

Australia's Competitive Laws Are Changing

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After two years of discussion and consultation, the Australian Government has enacted its legislative response to key recommendations in the Competition Policy Review (the Harper Review).

AustraliaAntitrust/Competition Law
Prudence Smith
Prudence Smith
Nicolas Taylor
Nicolas Taylor
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Summary

After two years of discussion and consultation, the Australian Government has enacted its legislative response to key recommendations in the Competition Policy Review (the Harper Review). 

Background—The Harper Review

In late 2013, the Prime Minister and the Minister for Small Business ("Minister") announced a review of Australia's competition policy and laws. In March 2014, the Minister tasked a panel, led by Professor Ian Harper ("Review Panel"), to conduct a 'root and branch' assessment of Australia's competition laws and policies, with the key area of focus being to identify impediments across the economy that restrict competition and reduce productivity, which are not in the broader public interest. The Review Panel released an issues paper, draft report and final report within 12 months ("Review").

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