184.This section gives the competent authority a power to impose financial penalties on issuers who have breached the listing rules.  Under the FS Act 1986, the competent authority can issue private or public censures or suspend or cancel the listing of securities.  The additional power conferred by this section is intended to provide further flexibility in this area. The competent authority will also be able to impose penalties upon present and former directors (which is defined in section 417 to include shadow directors) who were knowingly involved in a breach of the listing rules.  However, it may not impose a penalty later than two years after it first became aware of the breach.
185.Section 92 sets out the procedures the competent authority must follow when imposing a penalty. The competent authority is also required to publish a statement of its policy as regards penalties (see sections 93 and 94).  Before issuing or altering such a statement, the competent authority must consult on its proposals.
Commentary on Sections Part Vi: Official Listing Section 91: Penalties for breach of listing rules