From Voluntary to Mandatory: Australia’s Big Merger Reset

Australia’s mandatory merger control regime is now a live issue for boards, investors and dealmakers.

From 2026, Australia transitions from its long-standing voluntary merger system to a mandatory, suspensory notification regime under Part IVA of the Competition and Consumer Act. Transactions with a sufficient nexus to Australia that meet prescribed thresholds must now be notified to the ACCC and cannot proceed without formal clearance; a structural shift in how capital is deployed and deals are executed.

For domestic acquirers, global investors, and cross-border counterparties this reform materially changes transaction planning, timing, risk allocation and documentation.

Join the CACC and Ashurst in Melbourne for a private boardroom briefing examining:

• What the new regime means in practice for M&A and infrastructure transactions

• How thresholds, filing requirements and review timelines will operate

• Risk allocation in transaction documents under a suspensory system

• Implications for foreign investors and cross-border capital flows

• How boards and executives should adjust governance and deal strategy

Melissa Wharton

Chief Executive Officer

CANADIAN AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (CACC)

Melissa Wharton is the Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Australian Chamber of Commerce (CACC), the peak bilateral business body advancing trade, capital flows and strategic partnerships between Canada and Australia.

She is widely recognised as a leading advocate for deeper economic integration between the two countries, working at the intersection of government, institutional investors and industry. Under her leadership, the CACC convenes senior ministers, pension funds, superannuation leaders and global corporates across priority sectors including institutional investment, critical minerals, infrastructure, energy transition, defence and advanced manufacturing. The Chamber is the only bilateral organisation with active operations and governance presence in both countries.

Melissa is a dual citizen and a recognised advocate for strengthening economic ties between Canada and Australia.

Justin Jones

Partner, Competition Practice

ASHURST

Justin Jones is a partner in Ashurst's competition practice.  Justin is a competition and consumer lawyer with over 20 years' experience advising clients on all areas of competition and consumer law, energy regulation and infrastructure access.

Justin is experienced in assisting clients to obtain merger clearance, respond to regulatory inquiries, defend and pursue litigation, achieve best practice regulatory compliance, and secure other regulatory authorisations and exemptions. Justin works closely with commercial, legal and compliance teams to deliver pragmatic, concise and clear advice and help clients achieve their objectives.

Prior to joining Ashurst, Justin gained considerable experience in conducting investigations and civil prosecutions for the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) both as a lawyer in civil regulation for the Australian Government Solicitor, and as an ACCC investigator.

Ben Quirin

Head of Asia Pacific

INVERT INC.

Ben Quirin is a seasoned global business leader with over two decades of experience across multinational corporations and start-ups, spanning industries such as Telecommunications, Technology, Pharmaceuticals, and Climate Change. Ben's career includes working with some of the world’s most recognised brands and pioneering disruptors that have reshaped industries. Having lived and worked across the UK/Europe, Middle East Africa, Asia, and Australia, Ben brings a truly global perspective and exceptional cross-cultural expertise.

Renowned for his ability to establish and grow new industries and businesses, Ben excels in navigating challenges with a results-driven, authentic, and innovative approach. He thrives in high-impact roles, where he leverages his expertise in strategic leadership, partnership building, and execution to deliver sustainable success. Driven by his passion for sustainability and climate action, Ben actively contributes to advancing solutions for a sustainable future. His involvement with Invert highlights his commitment to tackling climate change, complemented by his participation in transformative initiatives like Work for Climate.

Ben's commitment extends beyond corporate success; he is deeply passionate about promoting well-being. His dedication to this cause reflects his compassionate leadership style and his belief in the holistic welfare of individuals within the corporate sphere.

Mark Stoffberg

Strategic Pursuits Lead ANZ / ASIA

SMARTSHEET

Mark Stoffberg has over 30 years in sales leadership, primarily focused on retail supply chain management, He has contributed to the growth of software companies across the Asia-Pacific and Japan (APJ) region. Beginning in tech-centric roles, Mark combines innovative solutions with strategic business goals, resulting in market reach and revenue growth.

Mark’s sales approach emphasises strategic insight, cross-cultural communication, and creative problem-solving, fostering meaningful connections across diverse backgrounds. Committed to supporting innovation and increasing customer value, Mark seeks to sustain business growth in the region, embracing continuous improvement and forward-thinking strategies.