The Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) has published reforms guidance to help current and incoming reporting entities prepare for upcoming changes to Australia’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) legislation. The changes bring thousands of new businesses into the AML/CTF regime from 1 July 2026, while updated requirements for existing reporting entities commence on 31 March 2026. The expanded scope covers sectors including real estate agents, accountants, lawyers, and dealers in precious metals and stones. The guidance was co-designed with peak industry bodies and focuses on practical implementation, including approaches intended to be cost-effective and scalable to a business’s size and complexity, alongside sector-specific risk insights and indicators for newly regulated sectors and additional support for the digital currency exchange sector. AUSTRAC indicated further materials will follow, including sector-specific guidance and starter kits for AML/CTF programs, as it adjusts its capacity to administer the new laws and support businesses transitioning to compliance ahead of the commencement dates.
Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) 2025-10-17
Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre issues AML/CTF reforms guidance ahead of regime expansion to real estate, legal and accounting sectors
AUSTRAC has issued guidance to help reporting entities prepare for changes to Australia's AML/CTF legislation effective from 2026. The reforms will include sectors like real estate, accounting, law, and precious metals dealing. Developed with industry bodies, the guidance emphasizes practical implementation and provides risk insights. Additional materials will be released as AUSTRAC enhances compliance support.