How will Australia’s merger reforms shape transaction tactics and timing in 2025?

KWM competition law partners Caroline Coops and Simon Cooke join M&A partner and co-author of KWM's Directions report Rhys Casey, to discuss the consequences of the sweeping overhaul to Australia's merger clearance regime.The team talk through the changes legislated as parliament wrapped for 2024, including mandatory notification for deals exceeding $200 million in combined Australian turnover or $250 million in global value.Caroline, Simon and Rhys unpack the implications for dealmakers navigating the new regime and transitional phase - talking tactics and timing considerations for overcoming the uncertainty ahead. Concerns include the increased ACCC workload, the need for timely waivers and the potential for additional red tape making it harder for businesses to do deals aimed at improving their competitiveness and productivity - all key business priorities identified in the Directions report.Bonus: Listen to the end for a fascinating prediction on what deeper deal data insights may mean for future policy-making!For more on the merger clearance reforms, check out KWM's analysis here and see everything you need to know about the new regime here.