Anti-Money Laundering & Counter Terrorism Financing

Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) regime is designed to deter, detect and disrupt movement of illegal funds, including the proceeds of crime, and to prevent laundering and counter terrorism activities.

The regime applies to a broad range of professions and, with its expansion effective 1 July 2026, will include legal practitioners, accountants, conveyancers, real estate agents, and other designated service providers. Under this framework, businesses are required to enrol with AUSTRAC, conduct initial and ongoing client due diligence, assess risk, and monitor financial transactions to prevent financial crime and ensure compliance with AML CTF rules and AUSTRAC reporting requirements for reporting entities.

Our expertise

Our legal team of experienced AML lawyers, advises clients across sectors on managing AML/CTF compliance requirements. We provide practical, commercially informed guidance to help businesses maintain integrity and meet regulatory expectations in areas such as real estate, trust and corporate structures and corporate governance.

We bring expertise in AML/CTF law and hands-on experience in compliance implementation. Our approach is tailored to each client’s risk profile and operational needs, ensuring legal obligations are met without compromising strategic objectives.

What makes us stand out?

Our complementary experience in commercial, superannuation and financial services, securities and the Personal Property Securities Act 2019 means we are adept at recognising potential risks and helping clients articulate and mitigate those risks.

Our services include:

Leveraging our industry insights for the benefit of our clients. We assist our clients to keep ahead of the curve and proactively prepare for the legislative reforms through training and article updates.
Advising on best-practice procedures, such as verifying grantor, to ensure AML/CTF risk assessments and reporting protocols are effectively integrated.
Preparing, reviewing and updating AML/CTF programs and policies to ensure they meet compliance requirements.
Advising on risk minimisation strategies, including enhanced client/customer due diligence and internal controls to reduce exposure to financial crime, laundering and counter terrorism and regulatory breaches.