The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has reminded digital asset businesses relying on its sector-wide no-action position that they must apply for an Australian Financial Services licence or seek a variation of an existing licence by September 30, 2026. Firms requiring an Australian Market Licence or Clearing and Settlement facility licence must notify the regulator of their intention to apply and hold a pre-application meeting by the same deadline. From October 1, firms that require authorization but have not met the no-action position’s conditions risk breaching financial services law and facing civil or criminal penalties, including potential fines of up to 10% of annual turnover. More than 45 applications for digital asset-related authorizations have been recorded since the regulator updated its guidance in October 2025. The Digital Assets Framework Act takes effect on April 9, 2027, and many existing authorizations will remain necessary under the new regime. Implementation will include consultations on standards and guidance and the release of regulatory guides.
2026-09-02Australian Securities & Investments Commission
Australian Securities and Investments Commission warns digital asset firms of September 30 licensing deadline as no-action relief ends
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has reminded digital asset firms to apply for or vary required licences by September 30, 2026, before its no-action relief ends. From October 1, noncompliant firms could face civil and criminal penalties, including fines of up to 10% of annual turnover. Many existing authorizations will remain necessary when the new digital assets framework takes effect on April 9, 2027.