The ACCC has been allocated an additional $67.7 million in government funding over four years to further strengthen the organisation’s competition and consumer law enforcement capabilities.  

ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb says this additional funding announced in the federal Budget will ensure the ACCC keeps pace with technological advancements and remain effective in identifying, investigating and addressing unlawful conduct that harms consumers and seeks to disadvantage businesses that follow the rules.

“Active, proportionate and evidence-based enforcement of Australia’s competition and consumer laws has been central to the ACCC’s work for many years and is vital for the strength and productivity of our economy as a whole,” she says.

The ACCC announces its compliance and enforcement priorities at the start of each year in response to emerging risks and changing market conditions. Current priorities include competition and consumer issues in key sectors of the Australian economy, including supermarkets and retail, essential services, aviation and digital markets.

The 2026-27 federal Budget measures relating to the ACCC also included funding to:

• Produce guidance materials and education campaigns ahead of amendments to the Australian Consumer Law coming into force, including a general prohibition on unfair trading practices and penalties for non-compliance with consumer guarantees.
• Develop nationally consistent safety standards for all e-micromobility devices, including e-scooters, establish a surveillance program and take targeted compliance and enforcement action.
• Continue the National Anti-Scam Centre’s activities for 12 months.
• Continue as the Digital ID Regulator for a further four years.
• Continue the ACCC’s Consumer Data Right functions for two more years.

“This additional funding highlights that on top of our role as an independent law enforcement agency, we have many additional regulatory responsibilities to safeguard consumers, promote competition, and bring transparency to complex markets,” says Ms Cass-Gottlieb.