Vodafone Hutchison Australia and TPG have confirmed that they are taking the Morrison Government to court over its rejection of their planned merger.

Vodafone has filed a statement of claim with the Federal Court seeking approval for the proposed merger.

A spokesperson said: “We believe the merger will create an entity that can compete more aggressively in the mobile market and will increase our ability to invest in networks, new technologies and competitive plans and products for Australian consumers.”

TPG said it is working with VHA “to progress the proceedings” and that it supports the orders being sought by VHA.