Australia – Gov’t Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers

Australia – Gov’t Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers

On 31 March 2022, AST GVT registered foreign acquisitions and takeovers amendment regulations 2022; these regulations commence on the day after they were registered.

  • The regulations reduce regulatory burden for foreign investors that engage in moneylending, invest in unlisted land entities or Australian media businesses.
  • As well as those that acquire shares or units under rights issues and other pro-rata offers, or transact on behalf of institutional investors as part of a custodian service.
  • Regulatory burden is reduced through amendments that refine the rules for the notification of these kinds of foreign investments, including raising thresholds.
  • There were five submissions to the consultation and changes ensured the proposed regulations reflect commercial practices of foreign investors and that scope is clear.