The competition watchdog has invited feedback on the role of brokers as part of its inquiries into IAG’s proposed acquisition of RACQ Insurance and the Allianz Australia purchase of RAA Insurance.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is seeking input on key issues such as how closely the businesses compete and alternative suppliers, and an attachment to its market inquiries letter asks about the role brokers and other intermediaries play in the industry.

“In particular, discuss whether the threat of these intermediaries directing consumers towards a different insurer’s product could prevent the merged entity from imposing a significant increase in premiums,” it says.

The ACCC has called for submissions on both deals by February 14 and says it will make final decisions or release statements of issues outlining concerns on April 24.

The list of questions seeks views on whether Queensland and SA should be considered separate geographic markets and whether the insurers involved have a reputation for being low-price, innovative or aggressive competitors.

It asks for details on market shares, broken down by line if possible, “recent or upcoming” examples of personal lines market entries or exits, and barriers to entry.

IAG announced its $855 million deal to acquire 90% of the RACQ insurance underwriting business in November. It would have an option to buy the remaining 10% in two years. The transaction includes a 25-year distribution agreement.

A few days after that, Allianz Australia said it had struck a $642 million agreement with RAA that includes the acquisition of its insurance business and a 20-year distribution agreement.