The BCA supports robust and effective competition law, because it is an important element of business regulation in Australia.  Effective competition is important to maintain adequate consumer choice and to keep prices low.  Any amendments that may stifle ordinary and legitimate commercial conduct or competition should be avoided.

Therefore, consistent with our broader views on regulatory reform, the BCA believes that any new business laws or proposed changes to existing laws should only occur where:

• there is a clear and identifiable problem to be addressed;
• the proposed reforms achieve the purpose for which they are intended without having unintended consequences; and
• the proposed reforms will not stifle ordinary and legitimate business behaviour. 

Submission on the Trade Practices (Creeping Acquisitions) Bill 2007