From hallandwilcox.com.au: Australia will implement a mandatory merger clearance regime starting 1 January 2026, with the ACCC prioritizing its guidance and enforcement.

A transition period from 1 July 2025 will allow for completion of existing review processes, but any formal authorisations must be submitted by 30 June 2025.

Businesses need to strategise their merger notifications promptly to align with the new requirements and avoid unnecessary double notifications to the ACCC.