From hallandwilcox.com.au: On 28 November 2024, Parliament passed a bill that reforms the merger control regime in Australia, introducing mandatory notification obligations for acquisitions that exceed specific monetary thresholds effective from 1 January 2026, with a voluntary period starting on 1 July 2025.

The new thresholds include limits based on Australian turnover and global transaction values, and the ACCC will gain look-back powers to review previous acquisitions.

The reforms will incur average notification fees between $50,000 and $100,000, increase transaction costs, and extend review timelines, while aiming to target anti-competitive behaviours without hindering small and mid-market acquisitions.