Australian Banking Association (financial relief programs)

On 12 July 2021, the Australian Banking Association (ABA) applied for revocation of authorisation AA1000482 and substitution of AA1000563 (re-authorisation) on behalf of its current and future member banks (Member Banks) (including third party suppliers and/or agents, where relevant) and their subsidiary banks.

In the context of the current Covid-19 pandemic conditions, the ABA sought re-authorisation under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth). Broadly, re-authorisation was sought to give Member Banks legal protection to continue to discuss, agree, and give effect to any contract, arrangement or understanding between them for the benefit of their customers with the purpose of providing financial relief and assistance to customers in any sector of the economy or customer segment, supporting government initiatives and ensuring high levels of customer service and access to banking (the Conduct). The ABA is seeking re-authorisation until 30 June 2022.

The ABA requested interim authorisation to allow its members to continue to engage in the Conduct prior to the ACCC’s final determination in relation to the substantive application for authorisation.

On 12 August 2021, the ACCC granted interim authorisation allowing the Applicants to engage in the Conduct. The ACCC also issued a draft determination proposing to grant authorisation until 30 June 2022.

On 8 October 2021, the ACCC issued a determination granting authorisation to the Applicants to engage in the Conduct until 30 June 2022. Authorisation was granted with the same conditions as previously.

Further information about the ACCC’s decision is available in the Decisions section below.