Our Approach to Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF)

April 2, 2026

By Melly Shute


From 1 July 2026, changes to Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing laws mean that law firms are required to complete additional identity and risk assessment checks before providing certain services. These reforms are designed to protect the financial system and prevent misuse by criminal organisations.

If your matter involves a “designated service,” such as a property transaction or certain business or trust arrangements, we are legally required to verify your identity, understand the nature and purpose of the matter, assess any associated risks, and maintain proper records.

 

Depending on your circumstances, you may be asked to provide photo identification, proof of address, documents relating to companies, trusts or SMSFs, and information regarding ownership or source of funds.

 

Our process is designed to be simple, secure, and efficient. Once we commence engagement, you may receive a request via our trusted verification platform to provide the required information. Most clients complete this process quickly, allowing us to proceed without delay.

 

We take privacy and data security very seriously. Your information is used solely for compliance and onboarding purposes and is handled in accordance with Australian privacy laws and our professional obligations. We utilise secure third-party technology to verify identity and do not retain copies of your identification documents.

 

We will continue to update this page as further guidance becomes available. 

Share This Blog

April 23, 2026
By Melly Shute There are few things more reliably Australian than trying to solve a complicated national problem with a tax tweak and a press conference. This week’s idea is the possible removal of the capital gains tax discount for investment properties, a proposal that has all the ingredients of a proper local political feast: investors clutching their spreadsheets, first home buyers clutching their despair, and renters clutching whatever remains of their bond. For those playing along at home, the CGT discount is the tax rule that softens the blow when an investor sells a property for a profit. Remove it, and suddenly the tax bill gets chunkier, triggered at the contract date no less, which, in property terms, is rather like being told the music stops before you have even put the champagne back in the fridge.
March 5, 2026
A $735,000 waterfront shack earning $70,000 per year has hit the market, according to realestate.com.au . Coastal lifestyle, strong headline income, and short stay appeal make this type of property attractive to investors in Victoria. But for anyone considering a short stay property investment, understanding the full legal and financial picture is critical. A property that looks profitable on paper may have hidden costs, compliance obligations, and risks if not carefully assessed.