Noticeboard

On 2 April 2012, the Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer announced the appointment of Mr Brian Wilson to the position of Chairperson to the Foreign Investment Review Board. Mr Wilson's appointment follows the retirement as Chair of Mr John Phillips AO.

On 18 January 2012 the Government released the Foreign Investment and Australian Agriculture report by the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) and commissioned by the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC). Also released was the Government’s response to the report and a Policy Statement on foreign investment in agriculture.

The indexed monetary thresholds for 2012 are $244 million and $1062 million. The developed non-residential commercial real estate (not heritage listed) is also now indexed and for 2012 is $53 million.

An Investment Protocol was signed by Australia and New Zealand on 16 February 2011. Once implemented, New Zealand investors will have higher monetary screening thresholds. For details see Policy Documents.

On 7 March 2011 Ms Deidre Gerathy replaced Mr Patrick Colmer as the Executive Member of FIRB.

On 15 July 2010, the Treasurer announced the appointment of Ms Anna Buduls to the Foreign Investment Review Board. Ms Buduls replaces Ms Lynn Wood, who recently retired from the Board.

The Government now requires temporary residents to seek FIRB approval before acquiring residential real estate in Australia.

Compliance hotline - Members of the public can report information on possible breaches of Australia’s foreign investment policy on 1800 050 377. For other telephone inquiries, please call (02) 6263 3795

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