Australia's new merger reforms
With the formal commencement of the regime on 1 January 2026 and voluntary notification under the new regime commencing from 1 July 2025, companies are encouraged to adapt their deal strategies in anticipation, especially for complex transactions spanning multiple jurisdictions. Stay informed with Gilbert + Tobin's insights and key timelines on navigating these landmark reforms.
Timeline
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The Treasury Laws Amendment (Mergers and Acquisitions Reform) Bill 2024 was passed through Parliament.
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Parties may voluntarily notify acquisitions to the ACCC under the new system from 1 July 2025, before the mandatory notification requirements and other remaining aspects of the system commence on 1 January 2026.
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The new system formally commences.
What does this mean for global advisers and their clients?
Many important elements of the new regime remain to be developed over coming months, including the regulations for the final thresholds, application forms (which will set out information and documents which must be provided), availability of waivers, filing fees and updated ACCC process and substantive guidance.
For now, it is important to help global clients understand the changing landscape. In particular, for large or complex multi-jurisdictional transactions with an Australian connection, there will be a need to consider the new regime now when framing conditions precedent and considering timing implications. There is scope to voluntarily adopt the new notification process from 1 July 2025 and for transactions with complex multi-jurisdictional filings (which may slow or complicate the Australian process), this may be advisable.
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Our market-leading Competition, Consumer and Market Regulation team is on hand to assist you with implementation of the reforms and preparation for mergers and acquisitions in the pipeline. We take a multi-disciplinary approach, integrating law and economics, plus a deep understanding of your business, your industry, and those who regulate it.
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