Senator the Hon Mathias Cormann

The Government has taken the next step in market testing private sector interest to upgrade and operate the ASIC Registry, make the necessary investment in technology to enhance customer service and to develop value added products and services that will provide broader benefits for the Australian economy.

After a successful registration of interest phase, the actual expression of interest phase of the ASIC Registry tender process is now underway.

This follows recommendations by a scoping study accepted by the Government in the 2015-16 Budget, which found that there is an active and growing private market for operating sophisticated data services including databases of business information.

The scoping study also confirmed the need to upgrade ASIC’s existing IT platforms and the opportunities for enhanced products and services.

Over 30 potential bidders responded to the registration of interest. The level and quality of responses received was strong.

In considering a private operator, the Government will also take into account its strong preference for the ASIC Registry to maintain its existing operations in Traralgon, Victoria.

The Commonwealth will retain ownership of the ASIC Registry’s data.

Parties who registered and complied with the terms and conditions of the Registration of Interest phase are now invited to participate in the Expression of Interest phase.

Other interested parties may still participate subject to complying with the terms and conditions of participation.

Expressions of Interest are now open and are due by 4pm, Sydney (Australia) Time, 19 October 2015.

Further information is available on the Department of Finance’s website:  http://www.finance.gov.au/.