Jennifer Barron is an experienced competition partner, with over two decades of practice across the private and public sectors. She brings sharp strategic focus and a deep understanding of the regulatory environment.
Most recently, Jennifer served as General Counsel - Merger Reform at the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, and for a number of years as Deputy General Counsel led the ACCC legal team responsible for mergers and competition exemptions. Jennifer was closely involved in major merger and exemption matters while at the ACCC, including the ACCC’s proceedings to obtain an interlocutory injunction to prevent Virtus Health acquiring Adora Fertility, and significant Tribunal proceedings in relation to applications for authorisation of a proposed spectrum sharing arrangement between TPG and Telstra and ANZ’s acquisition of Suncorp’s banking business. Jennifer also has a deep understanding of the new legislative regime mandating notification of many acquisitions.
Her experience at the ACCC is complemented by nearly 20 years in private practice, where she successfully navigated some of the most complex merger clearances and competition matters. Clients have commended her “perseverance and creativity in finding solutions to some very complex competition law issues” and describe her as “able to explain very difficult concepts easily and provide very commercial advice”. Jennifer practises across merger and acquisitions clearance, investigations, corporate advice and compliance training. She has experience across a range of industries, with notable expertise in energy, industrial products, construction materials and financial services.
Jennifer’s unique blend of regulatory and private practice experience will be invaluable to clients navigating the complexities of Australia’s evolving merger regime.
