The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has announced its enforcement priorities for 2026, targeting key areas including private credit practices, financial reporting misconduct, and misleading pricing in the financial services sector. This initiative aims to safeguard consumers from financial harm while maintaining the integrity of Australia’s financial markets.
In a statement, ASIC Deputy Chair Sarah Court emphasized the importance of these priorities, noting that they are designed to tackle emerging risks and the challenges Australians face amid rising living costs. “We are continuing to deliver strong, visible and active enforcement outcomes,” she said. “Our focus is on ensuring that consumers are protected and that the markets operate fairly.”
Key Focus Areas for 2026
ASIC’s new enforcement priorities for 2026 include a rigorous approach to misleading pricing practices, particularly those that complicate everyday expenses for consumers. The commission aims to enhance surveillance across the private credit sector, committing to decisive enforcement actions against any misconduct that undermines investor confidence and market integrity.
Court highlighted the growing significance of reliable financial information as unlisted assets, including superannuation funds and private credit funds, become increasingly influential in the economy. In response, ASIC plans to intensify enforcement actions against financial reporting misconduct.
Additionally, ongoing investigations into the collapses of the Shield and First Guardian Master Funds remain a top priority. Over 40 personnel are dedicated to this complex case, which has been classified as one of ASIC’s largest challenges to date. “We are focused on returning available money to investors and ensuring accountability for the collapses,” Court stated.
Recent Achievements and Continued Commitment
In the past year, ASIC has doubled the number of new investigations and nearly doubled the number of new matters filed in court. The commission has also increased criminal prosecutions, resulting in significant sentences for financial fraud offences. These actions underscore ASIC’s commitment to protecting consumers and addressing misconduct in the financial sector.
ASIC’s ongoing priorities will also include safeguarding First Nations and vulnerable consumers, tackling systemic failures, and promoting a fair and efficient financial system for all Australians. The overarching goal remains clear: to enhance market integrity and consumer protection within the Australian financial landscape.
Court concluded by reiterating the importance of ASIC’s role in the financial sector. “We take decisive and high-profile enforcement action to protect consumers, punish wrongdoers, and reduce the risk of misconduct in the markets we regulate.”
