New AML Rules: what estate agents, solicitors and accountants need to know

  • 20 February 2026
  • by BG Private
  • 4-minute read

Australia is implementing significant reforms to its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) laws. Regulatory obligations will now apply to a broader range of professional service providers.

Under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Amendment Act 2024, the AML/CTF regime will extend to those in the real estate, legal, accounting, and trust and company services industries that provide certain “designated services”.

These changes aim to close existing gaps that criminals have historically exploited, particularly with regard to property transactions and professional services.

From 1 July 2026, these sectors will be formally regulated under the AML/CTF framework, meaning they will have legal obligations to help detect and prevent money laundering and terrorism-financing activity.

Businesses captured by the reforms must implement AML/CTF programs, conduct customer identity checks, maintain records, report certain transactions and suspicious matters, and appoint responsible compliance officers.

A key step in this transition is registration with the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC).

Enrol or register with AUSTRAC

Affected entities will need to enrol and register with AUSTRAC in a window between 31 March and 29 July 2026 to be ready in time for the new compliance obligations taking effect.

This registration process collects basic business information and ensures AUSTRAC can engage with each entity about its AML/CTF responsibilities. For many professionals who have not previously been subject to AML/CTF laws, this represents a substantial change. Industry bodies and AUSTRAC are providing guidance materials and tools to help firms determine whether they are captured by the reforms and how to begin preparing. Early action during the registration period will make the transition smoother and help businesses avoid regulatory risk once the new AML obligations commence.

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