As we all begin to understand the impact of the COVID-19
pandemic on our economy, we have been working with our clients and
regulators to remove the road blocks to corporates operating in the
current 'lock down' environment. In general ASIC, ASX and
Treasury have shown a willingness to revisit policy settings in a
way that is better suited to the current environment. The law is
literally changing on a daily basis.
Significantly, on 23 March, the federal government introduced
and passed the Coronavirus Economic Response Package Omnibus
Bill 2020. We expect that this will see the Treasurer making a
range of regulations to address market concerns. Meanwhile, ASIC
has demonstrated an unprecedented willingness to grant waivers or
relief, where appropriate, to assist organisations resolve
liquidity issues and manage competing logistical and legal
challenges. ASX is also taking steps to assist listed entities with
the announcement, on 31 March, of reporting relief for ASX /
