Large companies will be negotiating with ARU throughout the process and any mutual agreement between the two parties ( ARU and buyer) will be contingent upon the final outcome.

So, to answer your question, it is my feeling that the final buyout will not be completed until after the law is passed in May.

 On the other hand, If a hostile offer comes in from say Barrick it can come in at any time and will be a low ball figure that will( most likely) be rejected by the ARU board.

Time will tell...