Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) Rules

Our Obligations

From 1 July 2026, new federal laws require our business—along with many other professional service providers—to comply with Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) rules. Under these laws, regulated businesses must:

  • Verify the identity of their clients
  • Understand the purpose of each transaction
  • Assess and document risk
  • Keep clear and accurate records

We are legally required to complete these checks before we can provide our services.

Why These Checks Matter

Money laundering is a serious issue in Australia. Criminals use legitimate businesses to move and disguise illegal funds.

These activities can contribute to:

  • Drug trafficking
  • Human exploitation
  • Terrorism
  • Large-scale financial fraud

Strong AML controls help prevent criminal networks from using professional services to move or hide illicit money.

Every identity check and risk assessment plays a role in protecting our clients, our business, and our community.

The AML Process – What to Expect

Our process is designed to be simple, secure, and efficient. Most clients complete it quickly once documents are provided.

How It Works

1. Provide your details
We collect basic identity information and any relevant documents.

2. Verification
Your identity and ownership details are securely verified through approved systems.

3. Follow-up (if needed)
If anything further is required, we will contact you promptly.

4. Assessment
We review the information, assess risk, and complete the required checks.

5. Proceed with your matter
Once complete, we move forward with your transaction.

This process is mandatory under AML/CTF regulations and ensures we meet our legal obligations.

Our Commitment to Your Privacy

We take your privacy and data security seriously. All information you provide is handled in accordance with:

  • Australian privacy laws
  • Professional confidentiality obligations
  • AML/CTF regulatory requirements

Your information is used only for identity verification, compliance checks, and onboarding. We do not sell, share, or use your data for marketing purposes.

All documents and personal data are stored securely, accessible only by authorised staff, and protected through encrypted systems and strict controls.

Questions?

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our AML/CTF Compliance Officer directly on 02 4973 3111 or email compliance@lawsonre.com.au

You can also visit AUSTRAC’s website for further information – https://www.austrac.gov.au/about-us/amlctf-reform/about-reforms

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Information for Purchasers

Why are we asking for this information?

From 1 July 2026, real estate agencies are required to comply with Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) laws. As part of these requirements, we must verify the identity of purchasers and obtain information about the transaction before we can proceed.

These checks apply to all purchasers and are not a reflection on any individual client.

What information will we ask for?

Depending on your circumstances, we may ask for:

✅ Full name, date of birth and residential address

✅ Driver Licence or Passport

✅ Details about the purpose of the purchase

✅ Information about how the purchase will be funded

✅ Information about the source of funds being used

✅ Additional information if a company, trust or other entity is purchasing the property

Why do you need to know why I’m buying the property?

Australian AML laws require us to understand the nature and purpose of the transaction. This means we may ask questions such as:

  • Is the property being purchased as a home or investment?
  • Will the property be owner occupied?
  • Is the property intended for redevelopment?
  • Is the property being acquired by a company or trust?
  • Is the property being purchased for business purposes?

These are standard questions that we are required to ask all purchasers.

Why do you ask about the source of funds?

We may need to understand where the money for the purchase is coming from.

Examples include:

  • Savings
  • Australian bank finance
  • Sale of another property
  • Inheritance
  • Gift from a family member
  • Business income
  • Company funds

In some cases, we may request supporting documentation.

Is my information secure?

Yes. Information collected for AML purposes is handled securely and used only for identity verification and compliance purposes. We take privacy and data protection seriously.

What happens if I don’t provide the information?

Unfortunately, AML legislation requires us to complete these checks before proceeding with certain transactions. If the required information cannot be obtained, we may not be able to continue acting in the transaction.

Learn More

For more information regarding Australia’s AML/CTF reforms, please visit:

AUSTRAC https://www.austrac.gov.au/about-us/amlctf-reform/about-reforms