The merger of Southern Cross Media Group (SCA) and Seven West Media Limited (SWM) is one step closer to reality with the ACCC finding that they provide different advertising opportunities and that the SCA assets (having sold their TV ones to SWM in May) are different in principle to SWM’s.

ACCC Deputy Chair Mick Keogh said:

“Local businesses and media agencies seeking to advertise in regional areas will continue to have a range of options in these local markets, including online and social media advertising with geo-targeting capabilities.”

The ACCC was investigating whether the merger would substantially lessen competition in any market with Western Australia possibly the sticking point where both organisations are two of the biggest traditional media outlets offering advertising opportunities for local businesses.

Keogh added:

“Australian media markets are being transformed by consumers’ growing preference for digital media. This shift is leading advertisers to invest more heavily in online and digital channels.

Owners of traditional media platforms such as radio, free-to-air television and newspapers will continue to face strong competition from digital media. Southern Cross will be no exception, even after the acquisition.

Ultimately, we found that the acquisition would be unlikely to substantially lessen competition in any market.”

Separately yesterday, November 12, SWM announced that the Supreme Court of New South Wales has also approved a shareholder meeting to vote on the proposed acquisition. The Scheme Meeting was slated for 10:00am AEDT on Monday December 22, 2025, but now that the ACCC have okayed the merger, it could be earlier. SWM shareholders are encouraged to vote, it is not a requirement. Still outstanding are ACMA and ASX approval.

The price of SCA shares continues to improve, up to a high of 94c which is more than double a little over 12 months ago. Seven West Media’s are currently 14c.

Jen Seyderhelm is a writer, editor and podcaster.