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ARTICLE · 18 APRIL 2024

Government announces significant changes to Australia's merger regime

Holding Redlich
Holding Redlich
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Businesses should be aware of proposed changes and consider potential effects on upcoming mergers and acquisitions.

AustraliaCorporate/Commercial Law
Joanne Jary
Joanne Jary
Sam Shaw
Sam Shaw
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On 10 April 2024, the Federal Government announced significant changes to Australia's merger regime through the release of their report, ' Merger Reform: A Faster, Stronger and Simpler System for a More Competitive Economy'.

At the annual  Bannerman Competition Lecture, Treasurer Jim Chalmers noted that that the proposed changes will make Australia's merger approval system "faster, stronger, simpler, more targeted and more transparent".

With the changes expected to commence on 1 January 2026, businesses should be aware of the changes as they pass through parliament and consider the potential effects on upcoming mergers and acquisitions.

What are the proposed changes?

We look at the key elements of the proposed changes to the merger regime below.

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This publication does not deal with every important topic or change in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you have found this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances please contact one of the named individuals listed.

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