Aurizon Advances After ACCC Clears Acquisition of Flinders Logistics Post Structural Adjustments

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has announced it will not oppose Aurizon's proposed acquisition of Flinders Logistics Pty Ltd, following adjustments made to the deal's structure to alleviate initial competition concerns. Aurizon, a national freight company, initially sought to secure exclusive rights to the critical rail logistics facilities at Berth 29 of Port Adelaide, a move which raised concerns at the ACCC about potential anti-competitive behavior by limiting rival access to rail haulage services. The restructured transaction now excludes the underlease for the Berth 29 rail pad, maintaining it as a common user asset managed by Flinders Port Holdings, thus ensuring third-party access. Flinders Logistics provides logistical services necessary for the export and import of bulk and limited break-bulk cargo at South Australia’s major ports, and the acquisition is now seen as unlikely to substantially reduce competition.