The competition watchdog is expected to announce its long-awaited decision on pay TV provider Foxtel’s takeover of regional rival Austar next week.

Austar on Thursday said the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) had indicated it would make its decision on the $2 billion takeover on April 10.

Austar shareholders voted in favour of the proposed takeover on March 30, despite the ACCC not having yet given its approval for the deal which was originally announced in May 2011.

The ACCC had delayed making a decision, pending further discussions with Foxtel.

Should the ACCC approve the takeover, the parties will head to the Federal Court on April 13 for approval and the transaction would be completed on April 16.

Austar shares were steady at $1.48 at 1110 AEST.