The Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) confirmed that Australia’s expanded anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) laws now cover tens of thousands of additional businesses, including real estate agents, lawyers, conveyancers, accountants and dealers in precious metals and stones. The expansion targets sectors and services that criminals exploit to launder illicit funds through property transactions and complex trust and company structures. Businesses providing designated services must have an AML/CTF program and compliance officer in place, train staff and be ready to meet reporting obligations. They have until July 29 to enroll with AUSTRAC, while registration applies only to certain higher-risk services, including remittance and virtual asset services. Businesses that continue providing designated services without enrolling may face regulatory action.
Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC)2026-07-01
Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre confirms expanded AML/CTF regime is in force for tens of thousands of businesses
AUSTRAC confirmed that expanded AML/CTF laws now apply to tens of thousands of additional businesses, including real estate and professional services firms and precious metals and stones dealers. Covered businesses must meet their compliance obligations and enroll with AUSTRAC by July 29 or risk regulatory action.