It’s back to the basics: who, what, how and where. 

That’s how we’re breaking down key risk indicators for professionals in the real estate, accounting and legal sectors, as well as for dealers in precious stones and metals. You will also see them described as ‘tranche 2 entities’.

“Our last national risk assessment found that services provided by these professions pose a high risk of money laundering in Australia,” says AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas.

“This is why from 1 July 2026, they’ll be covered by anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) laws.” 

We’ve released risk insights and indicators to help you identify financial crime red flags specific to your profession. They will help you comply with your upcoming legal obligations and protect your business and the community from criminal exploitation.

“Our risk indicators fall into broad categories of the types of customers or clients, services you offer, how you deliver these services, and any links to other countries,” added Mr Thomas. 

For example, if you’re a real estate agent and your client is from a high-risk jurisdiction, refuses to meet in person or prove their identity, uses complex loans from unknown sources, and is buying a luxury property without even inspecting it, these could be red flags. 

“Remember, red flags are tools to help you detect suspicious activity related to money laundering or terrorism financing and other serious and organised crime,” said Mr Thomas. 

A red flag is not an accusation of wrongdoing; it’s a sign to investigate further.

I’m a tranche 2 professional, what can I do next?

Read through the risk insights and indicators for: 

• Real estate
• Legal professionals
• Accountants
• Precious stones and metals dealers

They can help you identify and manage the risks you may face and comply with your AML/CTF obligations from 1 July 2026.