From hallandwilcox.com.au: The ACCC has proposed a new exemption for real estate funds under its mandatory merger notification regime, allowing acquisitions for residential development or land leasing without notification.

The scope of the exemption may benefit most real estate funds, but uncertainties remain regarding the assessment of the acquirer’s primary purpose and the definition of operating a commercial business on the land.

The consultation period for the exposure draft ends on May 2, 2025, with expectations for clarification to ensure efficient transactions for fund managers in the real estate sector.