Australia
21 articles tagged with #Australia
Best Countries to Get a Payment License in 2026
Compare the best countries for obtaining a payment licence in 2026, including costs, timelines and regulatory requirements.
AUSTRAC Registration Requirements: Who Needs to Register in Australia?
AUSTRAC Tranche 2 reforms expand AML/CTF obligations to accountants, lawyers, real estate agents, and other professional services, requiring registration, compliance programs, and risk controls.
Top Countries for Crypto Businesses in 2026
Explore the top crypto-friendly countries in 2026, comparing licensing timelines, costs, tax benefits, regulatory clarity, and business setup options for crypto companies.
Airwallex Under AUSTRAC Scrutiny Over AML/CTF Compliance Issues
AUSTRAC orders an independent audit of Airwallex over AML/CTF compliance concerns, focusing on customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, and suspicious reporting.
Australian Brokerage License: Key Requirements and Structure
The Australian Brokerage License offers two main entry options: a full AFS License or operating as an authorized representative. These differ in capital requirements, compliance obligations, and level of independence, allowing firms to choose the most suitable structure for entering the market.
What Does an AFSL and Credit Licensee's Defensible Compliance Framework Look Like?
A defensible AFSL compliance framework requires more than policies—it needs structured systems proving how risks are monitored, incidents managed, and decisions documented. Strong governance, tracking, and clear records ensure compliance is operational, traceable, and regulator-ready.
Ripple Aims to Support Australian Payments by Targeting AFSL
The acquisition of BC Payments Australia by blockchain giant Ripple will combine traditional rails with digital asset infrastructure.
As reforms are imminent, the head of AUSTRAC demands more leadership on AML
AUSTRAC warns gambling firms to strengthen AML leadership as reforms approach. CEO Brendan Thomas highlighted ongoing compliance failures and rising risks, urging better controls, monitoring, and accountability or facing regulatory action.
The CEO of AUSTRAC threatens regulatory action if companies ignore new AML regulations
AUSTRAC warns firms to comply with new AML/CTF reforms, with updates launching March 30. CEO Brendan Thomas stressed progress over perfection but warned of regulatory action if risks aren’t managed.
Five Things to Think About Before Submitting an AFSL Application
Before applying for an AFSL, assess ASIC’s role, application requirements, ongoing obligations, penalties for non-compliance, and possible exemptions. Ensure your business qualifies as providing financial services and can meet strict compliance, training, and operational standards.
When is it necessary to obtain an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL)?
An AFSL is required in Australia if you carry on a financial services business, even as a minor activity. It covers advising, trading, managing funds, and more. Operating without one risks serious penalties; exemptions or alternatives may apply in limited cases.
FACT SHEET: How to Apply for AFSL
Applying for an AFSL requires clear purpose, correct authorizations, and qualified Responsible Managers. Applicants must submit detailed business, compliance, and risk info via ASIC, with supporting documents. The process takes ~5–8 months and may require additional review.
AFSL Holders: Get Ready for Significant Changes in AML/CTF Compliance by 2026
AFSL holders face stricter AML/CTF rules by March 31, 2026. Reforms require a single risk-based program, expanded risk assessments (including proliferation financing), stronger governance, and updated training—making compliance an ongoing priority.
What has changed and what will happen in 2026 with Australia's AML/CTF regime?
Australia is overhauling its AML/CTF regime in 2026, expanding rules to new sectors and strengthening risk-based compliance, with major obligations for both existing and newly regulated businesses.
Adhering to new regulations: AUSTRAC's expanding influence in 2026
AUSTRAC is tightening AML/CTF rules in 2026, forcing stronger compliance and increasing enforcement, especially in high-risk sectors.
Australia blocks the newest illicit online gambling sites
Australia’s communications regulator (ACMA) has blocked several new illegal gambling websites, continuing its efforts to protect consumers and enforce the Interactive Gambling Act.
Australia’s Binance Regulations in 2026: A Comprehensive Legal and Compliance Guide
As Australia's crypto regulations tighten in 2026, traders face a key choice: Binance or Bitget? This guide breaks down the legal status, security features, and compliance requirements of both platforms to help Australian users trade safely and confidently.
ASIC moves to Expand Stablecoin Distribution Exemption: What It Means for Australia’s Crypto Regulation
Australia's financial regulator ASIC is moving to expand its stablecoin distribution relief framework by adding a second approved stablecoin, AUDF, alongside the existing AUDM — a step that signals how regulators are shaping crypto oversight ahead of formal legislation.
The Transition Window for Australia's Crypto Regulation Is 2025–2026 🇦🇺
Australia integrates crypto into its financial framework. Discover critical 2026 deadlines for ASIC AFSL compliance, AUSTRAC VASP registration, and Treasury’s new DAP rules.
DCE vs. AFSL: Which Australian License Does Your Crypto Exchange Actually Need in 2026?
In 2026, Australia’s crypto regulation splits clearly between AUSTRAC (DCE/VASP) and ASIC (AFSL) — and choosing the wrong path can block your launch.
Crypto Licence in Australia: A Strategic Guide for 2026
Australia’s crypto rules are entering a new era on March 31, 2026. This guide breaks down the dual-regulator model (AUSTRAC + ASIC), the two-tier VASP/AFSL path, and what “institution-ready” compliance really requires - from local substance to Travel Rule.