“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,” ACCC chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said in a statement.

“This additional funding will ensure we keep 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.”

Consumer issues in the digital sector are a key priority for the coming year, alongside supermarkets and retail, essential services, and aviation.

The 2026–27 federal budget also included measures to continue the National Anti-Scam Centre for another 12 months, continue the ACCC’s Consumer Data Right capabilities for two more years, and the ACCC’s role as Digital ID regulator for another four 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,” Cass-Gottlieb said.