The ACCC has applied to the High Court for special leave to appeal the Pacific National Merger decision. It argues the Full Federal Court’s decision ‘does not recognise the full impact of the proposed acquisition on competition in this vitally important industry’.

“The ACCC proposes to allow the NSW Minerals Council and ten coal producers to collectively negotiate the terms and conditions, including price, of access to the Port of Newcastle for the export of coal and other minerals.”

Shipping company Wallenius Wilhelmsen Ocean AS (WWO) has entered a guilty plea to criminal cartel conduct in the Federal Court today.

The ACCC has outlined preliminary concerns with Google’s proposed acquisition of Fitbit. In particular, it has expressed concerns that ‘Google’s access to consumer health data may raise entry barriers, further entrench its dominant position and adversely affect competition in several digital advertising and health markets‘.

The ACCC has announced it will not oppose the proposed acquisition of Connective Group Pty Ltd by Australian Finance Group Ltd.

The ACCC has announced that it proposes not to allow plans by Caravan Tarde and Industries Association of Queensland (Caravanning Queensland) to offer a loyalty program to members.

The ACCC has announced it will not oppose Lumibird’s proposed acquisition of the Lasters and ultrasound Business of Ellex.

The ACCC has announced that it is ‘proposing to allow insurance companies and brokers to continue coordination and implementation of temporary COVID-19 relief measures for certain small businesses.‘

Andrew Eastwood has an item in today’s AFR discussing the future for regulatory enforcement in Australia.

RPM notification rejected: The ACCC has rejected a proposal by Stanley Black & Decker to set a minimum advertised price for Dewalt brand power tools, accessories and attachments.

The ACCC has announced it is continuing to investigate Qantas’s acquisition of a 19.9% stake in Alliance Aviation. The acquisition means Qantas is now Alliance’s single biggest shareholder. The acquisition took place without Qantas first seeking ACCC clearance.