( April 30, 2026, 06:19 GMT | Official Statement) -- MLex Summary: The head of Australia's antitrust regulator has argued that amid current challenges like cost-of-living pressures and rising market concentration, competition law should be seen as pro-business and essential to economic growth. In his 2026 Bannerman Competition Lecture, Commissioner Luke Woodward, the head of the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission, said that maintaining effective competition requires ongoing vigilance, adaptability to new market conditions, and continued investment in enforcement and expertise. He reflected on the legacy of Ron Bannerman, who led a forerunner to Australia's current competition watchdog, and highlighted how Australia’s shift to a prohibition-based regime and active enforcement helped replace widespread anti-competitive practices.Speech follows....
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