# Apple antitrust litigation in Australia

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/apple-antitrust-litigation-in-australia
> Updated: 2026-10-22T03:07:21.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2.

The Australian Federal Court ruled that Apple engaged in antitrust conduct by maintaining a closed ecosystem and violating competition laws. As a result, the court ordered Apple to open its iOS platform to third-party app stores and allow developers to use alternative payment systems. The ruling also mandates that Apple readmit Fortnite to the Australian App Store.

While the structural changes and the ability for developers to use alternative distribution and payment methods are scheduled to take effect on March 1, 2027, Apple has announced plans to appeal the decision. This legal challenge is expected to delay the implementation of the court orders.

## Claims

- The Australian Federal Court found that Apple misused its market power in violation of competition law. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Apple must allow competing app stores and alternative payment services starting March 1, 2027. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Developers must be provided with tools for alternative distribution on substantially the same terms as App Store distribution. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The ruling applies to users whose Apple Account region is set to Australia. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Apple plans to seek a stay and appeal the Australian Federal Court ruling. (single source)
- The court ordered Apple to readmit Fortnite to the Australian App Store. (single source)
- Apple is prohibited from charging for purchases made through alternative payment services or websites in apps distributed outside the App Store. (single source)
- Apps downloaded outside the App Store must undergo an automated security or privacy scan and be notarized. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-22: Apple to appeal Australian court order to open iOS platform

Apple is appealing an Australian Federal Court ruling that requires the company to allow rival app stores and alternative payment systems on iOS starting in March 2027.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/apple-to-appeal-australian-court-order-to-open-ios-platform

### 2026-10-22: Fortnite returns to Australian App Store following court ruling

Fortnite is returning to the Australian App Store after a Federal Court ruling ordered Apple to open its iOS platform to third-party app stores and alternative payment systems.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fortnite-returns-to-australian-app-store-following-court-ruling

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Cite as: Apple antitrust litigation in Australia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/apple-antitrust-litigation-in-australia