The Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) has directed Binance Australia, operated by Investbybit Pty Ltd, to appoint an external auditor after identifying serious concerns with the crypto exchange’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) controls. AUSTRAC’s concerns were prompted by issues including Binance’s latest independent review being limited in scope relative to the firm’s size, business offerings and risk profile. The regulator also flagged high staff turnover, a lack of local resourcing and insufficient senior management oversight, raising questions about the adequacy of AML/CTF governance. AUSTRAC reiterated expectations for robust customer identification, due diligence and effective transaction monitoring, and reminded digital currency exchanges to remain alert to suspicious activity including scam- and cybercrime-linked money laundering and terrorism financing. Binance Australia has 28 days to nominate external auditors for AUSTRAC’s consideration and selection.
Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) 2025-08-22
Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre orders Binance Australia to appoint an external auditor over serious AML and CTF control concerns
AUSTRAC has mandated Binance Australia, operated by Investbybit Pty Ltd, to appoint an external auditor due to concerns over its AML/CTF controls. Issues include limited review scope, high staff turnover, inadequate resourcing, and insufficient management oversight. AUSTRAC stressed robust customer identification, due diligence, and transaction monitoring, urging vigilance against scam- and cybercrime-linked money laundering and terrorism financing.