What the ACCC does
- We can review mergers that have the potential to substantially lessen competition.
- We can apply to the court to prevent or unwind a merger if we consider it would be likely to substantially lessen competition in breach of the law.
- We assess applications for merger authorisation. If granted, authorisation enables mergers to be exempt from action under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010.
- We keep a register of mergers that are publicly considered during the informal merger review or merger authorisation process.
What the ACCC can't do
- We can't oppose mergers in court that reduce competition unless the effect is likely to be substantial.
- We can’t oppose a merger for reasons that aren’t competition related, such as community preferences or national interest considerations.
- We can’t grant merger authorisation unless we are satisfied that the merger is not likely to substantially lessen competition, or that the merger would be likely to result in a net benefit to the public.
- We can’t give legal advice or recommend that merger authorisation is necessary.
