AUSTRAC has begun issuing section 167 notices to businesses that appear to be providing designated services but have not enrolled under Australia’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) laws.
The notices require businesses including real estate agents, accountants, lawyers and jewellers to provide information to help AUSTRAC determine whether they are providing regulated services and meeting their obligations under the AML/CTF Act.
AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas said enrolment is a legal obligation and an important first step in protecting Australia from financial crime.
“The time for preparation has passed. Businesses covered by Australia’s AML/CTF laws should already be working on managing their risks and meeting their obligations,” Mr Thomas said.
“Enrolment is a basic requirement. If a business is providing designated services, it needs to be enrolled with AUSTRAC and actively managing the risk that criminals could exploit its services to move or hide illicit money.
“AUSTRAC has made it clear both in our outreach and statements about our approach to regulation that meeting the requirement to enrol is a key focus.”
The AML/CTF regime was expanded on 1 July 2026 to cover tens of thousands of businesses in sectors including real estate, legal, accounting, conveyancers, trust and company services, and dealers in precious stones and metals.
These businesses play an important role in helping detect and prevent money laundering.
“Criminals look for opportunities to move dirty money through legitimate businesses and legitimate transactions,” Mr Thomas said.
“The newly regulated businesses under the AML/CTF regime are in a position to identify suspicious activity and help shut criminals out of the financial system. That responsibility should be taken seriously.”
Mr Thomas said AUSTRAC’s focus remains on helping businesses understand and comply with their obligations, but businesses that ignore the law should expect regulatory scrutiny.
“We have spent years working with industry to prepare for these reforms. Businesses have access to guidance, tools and support, but ultimately they are responsible for meeting their obligations.”
“Being regulated under the AML/CTF regime is a serious responsibility. Businesses that fail to engage with their obligations are exposing themselves, their customers and the wider community to criminal exploitation.”
Businesses seeking information about their obligations can visit the AUSTRAC website and get in touch with AUSTRAC’s Contact Centre.
“Contacting AUSTRAC for help isn't a red flag. Our Contact Centre exists to help businesses comply, not catch out those who are making a genuine effort to do the right thing.”
If you need assistance with enrolment or compliance, AUSTRAC’s Contact Centre is there to help, call: 1300 021 037.