The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has stepped up its war against corporate misbehaviour, successfully prosecuting 85 company officers in the past three months.

The business regulator says cases relating to 158 individual law breaches have resulted in fines and costs of nearly $200,000.

Executive Director of Consumer Protection Greg Tanzer says the regulator is not afraid to bare its teeth to small and big business.

“These prosecutions are an important part of ASIC’s work and clearly show that ASIC focuses on the corporate conduct of businesses and individuals across Australia, at all levels,” he said.

Most of the charges related to directors and officers of failed businesses, but insurance and other financial services were well represented.

Mr Tanzer says tip-offs from members of the public continue to ensure ASIC plays a strong role in regulating all Australian business.