The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has confirmed the appointment of Luke Woodward as its newest commissioner, commencing a five-year term from Oct. 10.
The announcement was made by ACCC chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb, who highlighted Woodward’s broad expertise in competition and consumer law, as well as his previous experience within the agency.
Woodward’s career spans more than 30 years, covering competition regulation, consumer protection, mergers and acquisitions, and infrastructure oversight.
He previously served at the ACCC from 1993 to 2000, holding senior roles such as executive general manager, general counsel, and senior assistant commissioner.
Most recently, he was a partner focused on competition and regulation at King and Wood Mallesons, where he also led the firm’s national competition law practice.
“His expertise and experience across a wide range of fields relevant to the work of the ACCC is recognised not only in Australia but globally,” she said.
Woodward holds a master's degree in public administration from Harvard Kennedy School, as well as degrees in economics and law from the University of Sydney.
He fills the position left vacant by the departure of former commissioner Liza Carver.
The appointment of Woodward comes as the ACCC continues to focus on regulatory enforcement and market oversight, areas closely watched by Australia’s insurance industry.
Insurance professionals may see heightened attention to competition issues, particularly in relation to mergers and acquisitions that could impact market structure and consumer choice.
The ACCC’s enforcement priorities, including those affecting financial services and insurance, are expected to benefit from Woodward’s litigation background and regulatory experience. His leadership may influence the agency’s approach to compliance and market reviews, which are of ongoing interest to insurance providers and intermediaries.
Carver’s term included chairing the ACCC’s Enforcement Committee and contributing to significant enforcement actions and policy initiatives.
“Liza’s legal skill and rigour, strategic insights, and guidance have shaped our enforcement program in recent years, and her input has been central to many of our most important outcomes," Cass-Gottlieb said. "Liza has made important contributions in many areas of our work, including in merger review and digital platforms regulation.”
Carver, who began her most recent term as commissioner in March 2022, has also served as associate commissioner with both the Trade Practices Commission and the ACCC, as well as a commissioner with the Australian Energy Markets Commission and a member of the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal.
“It has been an absolute privilege to serve as a commissioner with the ACCC under the leadership of Gina Cass-Gottlieb,” Carver said. “The importance of the agency to the welfare of consumers and the competitiveness of the Australian economy cannot be overstated, nor can the diligence and commitment of its staff and commissioners. I look forward to watching its successes in the future.”
