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Access to monopoly infrastructure
Access regulation seeks to promote effective competition in markets that depend on using the services of infrastructure that cannot be economically duplicated.
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To promote the economically efficient operation of, use of and investment in the infrastructure by which services are provided, thereby promoting effective competition in upstream and downstream markets.
Latest updates
NCC Review Underway – Mutual Recognition - Consultation paper released
The National Competition Council (the Council) is undertaking an independent evaluation to support the Review of Australia’s Mutual Recognition Schemes for Workers (the Review), overseen by the Council on Federal Financial Relations (CFFR).
The Council’s findings are intended to support the removal of unnecessary barriers to a single national market for workers by examining the operation and effectiveness of existing mutual recognition arrangements. The Terms of Reference ask the Council to report on ‘practical pathways to remove all unnecessary licensing barriers to a single labour market’.
The Council has developed interim findings, informed by an initial round of stakeholder consultation in March and April 2026. Interim findings suggest that, while mutual recognition schemes are providing benefits in some occupations, there is scope to improve regulatory consistency and data collection across jurisdictions, remove occupational exemptions, provide clearer information to licensees and improve information sharing between regulators.
The Review is now moving into its next phase, with a Consultation Paper released on 5 May 2026 (https://consult.treasury.gov.au/c2026-763743). This paper builds on the initial round of consultation and outlines interim findings and further consultation questions to inform development of recommendations for the final report to be delivered in July 2026.
Read the consultation paper and share your views to help identify practical reforms that reduce unnecessary barriers to a single national market for workers. Questions related to the Review can be directed to NationalCompetitionPolicy@treasury.gov.au.
2025–26 Annual Workplan: Delivering Reform, Opportunity, and Growth
The Workplan sets out a forward-looking agenda to advance competition reform which seeks to spark national collaboration, deliver practical outcomes and unlock new opportunities for a more dynamic Australian economy.
New Council Leadership
The Albanese Government has appointed Mr Marcus Bezzi as part time President and Ms Catherine Dermody, the Hon Dr Craig Emerson and Ms Sally McMahon as part time Councillors of the National Competition Council from 18 February 2026. Bringing exceptional expertise across competition, law, economics and regulation, these appointments strengthen the NCC’s leadership in driving Australia’s competition reform agenda and reflect the Government’s continued commitment to appointing outstanding women to key roles.
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