Clubs Australia

On 4 June 2019 Clubs Australia applied for authorisation to collectively bargain with suppliers of goods and services from industries including wagering services, gaming machines, food and beverage, and professional services on behalf of its members, being registered clubs across Australia.

The ACCC previously granted Clubs Australia authorisation to collectively bargain with suppliers on similar terms for a period of 5 years from 6 March 2014.  As the previous authorisation has now expired, Clubs Australia has requested interim authorisation to enable it to collectively bargain with the same target suppliers and on the same terms as previously authorised under A91381 while the ACCC is considering the new application (which includes a more extensive supplier list and broader conduct).

A copy of the application and submission are available by following the links below, as are all public submissions made by interested parties to date.

On 14 August 2019 the ACCC issued a draft determination proposing to grant authorisation for 10 years to Clubs Australia, and decided to grant interim authorisation to enable Clubs Australia to collectively negotiate on behalf of its member clubs on the same terms and with the same suppliers as previously authorised under A91381.

On 11 September 2019 the ACCC issued a determination granting authorisation to Clubs Australia to collectively negotiate on behalf of its current and future members, being registered clubs across Australia, with various suppliers from industries including wagering services, gaming machines, food and beverage, and professional services. Negotiations may be on price and non-price terms, including data-related terms for suppliers that can access the personal or purchasing information of club patrons.

If no application for review is lodged to the Australian Competition Tribunal, the ACCC’s determination will come into force on 3 October 2019.