Changes to Merger Control in Australia

Under the new regime, businesses must notify the ACCC of any acquisitions that meet certain thresholds, before their proposed acquisition can proceed. The ACCC will be the first decision maker on each notified acquisition.

The new processes will be a major change for the ACCC, business and consumers. The new mandatory merger notification requirements start on 1 January 2026, but businesses can start using the new regime on a voluntary basis from 1 July 2025.