NSW Fair Trading Warns Bondi United for False Terror Attack Links

NSW Fair Trading has issued a public warning against Bondi United for falsely claiming links to the Bondi Beach terror attack. The agency took action after investigations revealed misleading conduct, and the business has indicated it will offer refunds to consumers. This action highlights the government's commitment to protecting consumers from exploitation following tragic events.

Fair Trading Suspends Agent for Misrepresentation, Disqualifies Another for Fraud

NSW Fair Trading has suspended one real estate agent's license for 60 days due to misrepresenting prices and failing to pass on offers. In a separate action, another agent was disqualified for five years and faces further investigation for misappropriating approximately $300,000 in trust funds.

NSW Fair Trading Suspends Strata Agent Licence Pending Investigation

NSW Fair Trading has suspended the licence of strata managing agent Ms Christine Ng pending an investigation into alleged misconduct, including failure to pay money into trust accounts and breaching conduct rules. The suspension prevents Ms Ng from operating as a real estate or strata managing agent.

NSW Fair Trading Suspends Real Estate Licence Pending Misconduct Action

NSW Fair Trading has suspended the real estate licence of Anthony Di Nardo for 60 days pending disciplinary action due to allegations of sexual misconduct. A Show Cause notice was issued, requiring a response by March 23, 2026, regarding why disciplinary action should not be taken.

Real Estate Agent Prosecuted for Fraud

NSW Fair Trading has prosecuted former real estate agent Dean Norburn for dishonestly obtaining $305,053 by deception. He was convicted and sentenced to an 18-month Intensive Corrections Order, 300 hours of community service, and ordered to pay $100,000 compensation.

ACMA Fines Six Wagering Providers for Self-Exclusion Rule Breaches

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has concluded investigations into six wagering providers for breaches of gambling self-exclusion rules. Tabcorp paid a $112,680 penalty, while others received remedial directions or formal warnings for failing to protect self-excluded individuals.

ACMA Updates Commercial Radio Code of Practice for AI Disclosure and Content

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has updated the Commercial Radio Code of Practice, effective July 1, 2026. New rules require broadcasters to disclose the use of artificial intelligence in hosting regularly scheduled programs and news, and to exercise special care with content during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Lycamobile Pays $376,200 Penalty for Identity Verification Failures

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has fined Lycamobile Pty Ltd $376,200 for 131 breaches of anti-scam rules related to identity verification failures during mobile number transfers. The company has also entered into an 18-month court-enforceable undertaking to improve its security arrangements.

Tabcorp Fined $158,400 for Illegal In-Play Sports Bets

Tabcorp Holdings Limited has paid a $158,400 penalty to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for accepting 426 illegal in-play sports bets. This is the third breach of in-play betting rules by Tabcorp since 2021.

Lululemon Fined $702,900 for Spam Email Violations

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has penalised Lululemon Athletica Australia Pty Ltd $702,900 for sending over 370,000 spam emails that failed to include an unsubscribe option. The company also entered into a court-enforceable undertaking to improve compliance.

AUSTRAC Operation Taipan: Money Laundering Investigation Analysis

AUSTRAC has published an analysis of Operation Taipan, a significant money laundering investigation that led to the dismantling of a criminal syndicate depositing $62 million through ATMs. The operation highlighted the effectiveness of the Fintel Alliance public-private partnership in combating financial crime.

AUSTRAC Releases AML/CTF Program Starter Kits for Small Businesses

AUSTRAC has released Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) program starter kits to assist small businesses in newly regulated sectors. These kits provide practical tools and step-by-step guidance to help businesses meet their compliance obligations under the AML/CTF Act, which will take effect from July 1.

AUSTRAC Guidance on Compulsory Examination Powers

AUSTRAC has published new guidance on its compulsory examination powers, introduced by the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Amendment Act 2024. The guidance clarifies the scope and application of these powers, which require individuals to attend examinations and provide documents.

AUSTRAC CEO Speech on Gambling Financial Crime Risks

AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas delivered a speech on March 12, 2026, addressing the significant financial crime risks within Australia's gambling sector. The speech highlighted the evolving threats of money laundering and terrorism financing, emphasizing the need for robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) controls.

AUSTRAC CEO Speech on Money Laundering and Legal Profession's Role

AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas delivered a speech on March 12, 2026, detailing the mechanics and harm of money laundering. The speech emphasized the legal profession's role in preventing these activities, which cost Australia over $80 billion annually.

Cambridge Analytica Payment Program Registration Deadline

Eligible Australian Facebook users impacted by the Cambridge Analytica matter must register for a payment program by December 31, 2025. The program, established by Meta Platforms as part of an enforceable undertaking with the Australian Information Commissioner, offers payments to over 300,000 affected individuals.

OAIC Highlights Improved Transparency in Government Automated Decision-Making

The Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) has released a report highlighting opportunities for government agencies to improve transparency in automated decision-making (ADM). The report follows a review of 23 agencies and identifies a significant gap in public disclosure of ADM use, with only 17% of agencies disclosing it.

Privacy Commissioner Statement on Bunnings Facial Recognition Decision

The Australian Privacy Commissioner has issued a statement regarding the Administrative Review Tribunal's decision on Bunnings' use of facial recognition technology. The statement clarifies that while the Tribunal allowed Bunnings to use the technology for specific crime prevention purposes, significant privacy safeguards and notification requirements remain crucial.

OAIC Statement on Bunnings Facial Recognition Technology Decision

The Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) issued a statement regarding the Administrative Review Tribunal's decision on Bunnings' use of facial recognition technology (FRT). The Tribunal affirmed findings that Bunnings contravened privacy principles by failing to provide adequate notice and conduct a formal risk assessment for its FRT system.

Reserve Bank of Australia Increases Cash Rate to 3.85%

The Reserve Bank of Australia's Monetary Policy Board has increased the cash rate target by 25 basis points to 3.85%. This decision was made due to rising inflation and capacity pressures, with inflation expected to remain above target for some time.

Reserve Bank of Australia Monetary Policy Board Appointment

The Reserve Bank of Australia announced the appointment of Professor Bruce Preston to its Monetary Policy Board. This notice also acknowledges the contributions of Alison Watkins, whose term concludes on February 28, 2026.

RBA Guidance for Australian Clearing and Settlement Facility Resolution Regime

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has published final guidance on its Clearing and Settlement (CS) Facility Resolution Regime. This guidance, developed after a consultation period, outlines the RBA's approach to using its resolution powers over CS facilities to ensure financial system stability.

Payments System Board Discusses Cash Distribution and Regulatory Framework

The Reserve Bank of Australia's Payments System Board met in March 2026 to discuss cash distribution, merchant card costs, payments system resilience, and account-to-account payments. The Board is considering a new regulatory framework for cash distribution services and potential amendments to card payment regulations, with a conclusions paper expected by end-March.

RBA Update on BECS Decommissioning Recommendations

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has released an update on industry progress regarding the decommissioning of the Bulk Electronic Clearing System (BECS). While acknowledging industry efforts, the RBA notes that risks persist due to a lack of consensus on the future of account-to-account payments.

Australian Airports Increase Infrastructure Investment, Potential Airfare Hikes

Australia's four major airports increased infrastructure investment by 43.6% in 2024-25, investing $1.5 billion. However, the ACCC warns that higher airport charges to airlines may lead to increased airfares for passengers.

ACCC Monitors Petrol Prices Amid Middle East Conflict

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is monitoring petrol prices in response to the Middle East conflict and its impact on international crude oil costs. The ACCC has reminded fuel companies of their obligations under the Australian Consumer Law regarding price increase representations and stated it will take action against anti-competitive behaviour.

ACCC to Scrutinise Fuel Pricing Amid Middle East Crisis

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) will increase scrutiny of fuel pricing and distribution amid the Middle East crisis. The ACCC will hold urgent meetings with fuel market participants and commence weekly market updates to enhance transparency and address consumer concerns about price spikes and regional supply issues.

ACCC: Hyatt changes card surcharges after investigation

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) announced that Hyatt hotels in Australia have changed their card payment surcharging practices following an ACCC investigation. Hyatt Regency Sydney was found to be charging debit card surcharges above its costs, in breach of the Competition and Consumer Act. All Hyatt hotels in Australia have now implemented changes to ensure compliance.

ACCC Monitoring of Fuel Prices

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has launched a new weekly fuel price monitoring update, highlighting significant and rapid price variations in petrol and diesel across Australian capital cities. The ACCC is seeking explanations from major fuel retailers regarding these price movements.

ASIC bans financial adviser Raluca Terheci for six years

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has banned financial adviser Raluca Terheci from providing financial services for six years. ASIC found she provided inappropriate advice and made false and misleading statements to clients regarding high-risk investments.

Remedy Housing Officers Sentenced for Dishonesty Offences

Three former Remedy Housing officials, Brent Smith, Mahmoud Khodr, and Fue Mano, have been sentenced for dishonesty offences related to promoting interest-free mortgages. The company received $1.83 million in deposits from 107 customers, with significant misappropriation of funds by the officials.

Capital Mining Limited Directors' Charges Discontinued

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (Cth) has discontinued charges against former Capital Mining Limited directors Peter Dykes, Anthony Dunlop, and Peter Torney. ASIC considers the matter finalised following this decision.

ASIC Disqualifies Director for Five Years Over 20 Company Failures

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has disqualified Vincenzo Frank Tesoriero from managing corporations for five years due to his involvement in the failure of 20 companies. The disqualification stems from findings of improper conduct, including facilitating fraudulent transactions and mismanaging company funds.

ASIC Disqualifies Simon Raftery from Managing Corporations

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has disqualified Simon Raftery from managing corporations for two and a half years due to his involvement in five failed companies. These companies owed approximately $43 million to creditors.

Speech on EU Banking Regulatory Framework

A speech by Patrick Montagner of the ECB discusses the fragmentation of the EU banking regulatory framework and calls for deeper integration. The speech highlights the need to remove barriers to capital and liquidity flows and further develop crisis management frameworks to enhance global competitiveness.

ECB Blog: Banks as Enablers of Market Integration and Investment Innovation

The ECB's Supervisory Blog discusses how banks can act as strategic enablers for market integration and investment innovation within the EU's Savings and Investments Union (SIU) initiative. The blog highlights the SIU's role in channeling savings into productive investment and enhancing Europe's competitiveness.

ECB Discusses Bank Exposure to Iran War and Geopolitical Risks

The ECB's Supervisory Board Member Pedro Machado discussed European banks' exposure to the Iran war and geopolitical risks in an interview. He noted that direct exposures are modest, but emphasized the need for banks to embed geopolitical events into capital planning and stress-testing frameworks.

ECB Speech on Nature-Related Risks and International Cooperation

ECB Executive Board Member Frank Elderson delivered a speech highlighting the significant economic and financial risks posed by nature degradation. He emphasized the critical need for international cooperation among central banks and supervisors to manage these risks effectively.

ACER Report on Danish Gas Tariffs and Pipeline Costs

The European Union Agency for Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER) has released a report assessing Danish gas transmission tariffs. The report evaluates the proposed reference price methodology against EU Network Code requirements, highlighting a need for greater transparency on upstream pipeline costs.

ACER supports certification of first European hydrogen transmission network operator

The European Union Agency for Cooperation between Energy Regulators (ACER) has published an opinion supporting the certification of GAZ-SYSTEM as the first European hydrogen transmission network operator. This opinion is part of the certification process under the Hydrogen and Gas Decarbonisation Package, ensuring compliance with EU ownership unbundling rules.

ACER Consultation on EU Power Purchase Agreements Market

The European Union Agency for Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER) is launching a public consultation on developments and initiatives in the EU Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) market. The consultation aims to identify challenges and factors affecting the PPA market across Member States.

ACER Details Cross-Border Investigations in REMIT Quarterly

The Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER) has published its 43rd REMIT Quarterly, detailing its approach to cross-border investigations under the updated EU energy market framework. The report includes updates on stakeholder engagement, data reporting preparations, and market surveillance statistics.

ACER Assesses EU DSO Entity's Gas and Hydrogen Documents

The European Union Agency for Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER) has issued an opinion on the updated draft statutory documents of the EU DSO entity, which now include provisions for gas and hydrogen distribution system operators. ACER's assessment notes reasonable adaptations but also identifies potential risks of deadlocks and inconsistencies with existing electricity regulations.

BEREC Workshop on Copper Switch-off and Digital Networks Act

BEREC announced a workshop on March 17, 2026, to discuss the implications of the proposed Digital Networks Act on copper switch-off and market competition. The workshop will bring together regulators and stakeholders to examine challenges and share reflections on the proposed legislation.

EU Connectivity and Competitiveness: BEREC Chair's Remarks

BEREC Chair Marko Mišmaš emphasized the critical role of connectivity in strengthening European sovereignty and competitiveness at the Future Connectivity Summit Europe. Discussions focused on modernizing the Digital Networks Act, fostering investment, and ensuring secure and resilient networks.

BEREC Chair Speaks on Digital Regulation at Digital Summit LATAM

BEREC Chair Marko Mišmaš spoke at the Digital Summit LATAM 2026 on February 26, 2026, emphasizing the need for coordinated regulation in the digital ecosystem. He cautioned against overregulation that could stifle innovation and stressed the importance of regulatory coherence across emerging technologies.

BEREC Public Debriefing on Expert Work

BEREC will host an online public debriefing on March 19, 2026, to present recent expert work and adopted documents. The event will also announce a call for early stakeholder input on the BEREC Work Programme 2027 and launch public consultations on key regulatory themes.

BEREC Chair Reaffirms Commitment to EU Telecom Policy

BEREC Chair Marko Mišmaš reaffirmed the organization's commitment to EU telecom policy at the Mobile World Congress. He emphasized the need for 'smart simplification' to encourage investment and innovation while preserving competition and consumer protection, referencing the European Electronic Communications Code and the upcoming Digital Networks Act.

Public Consultation on Draft BEREC Work Programme 2026

BEREC has launched a public consultation on its Draft Work Programme for 2026. Stakeholders are invited to submit their contributions by November 3, 2025. The programme outlines BEREC's strategic priorities for the upcoming year, focusing on connectivity, competition, digital market development, and citizen interests.

Public Consultation: BEREC Draft Report on Switching and Termination Contracts

BEREC has launched a public consultation on its draft report concerning challenges and best practices in switching and terminating telecommunications contracts. Interested parties can submit contributions until January 30, 2026. The report aims to identify persistent issues and successful national solutions related to Article 106 of the EECC.