Buying or Selling Property? Australian Real Estate AML/CTF Laws Now in Effect

From 1 July 2026, new Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) laws will apply to Australian real estate services.

You may have started hearing more about these changes and what they mean for buying and selling property.

These laws are designed to help prevent money laundering, terrorism financing and other serious financial crimes by introducing additional identity checks as part of property transactions. Similar checks already exist across industries like banking and finance, and from July 2026 they will also apply to real estate services.

What does this mean for buyers and sellers?

If you’re buying or selling property, your real estate agent may ask you to provide identification and some additional information before they can provide certain property-related services.

Under the new laws, our Agents will be required to:

• Verify the identity of clients by obtaining proof of ID
• Collect details of beneficial ownership where required
• Obtain company or trust structure information where applicable
• Complete customer due diligence checks before engaging in or providing a property transaction service

These checks will apply to both Vendors and Purchasers.

What information might you be asked to provide?

Depending on your circumstances, you may be asked for:

• Photographic identification such as a driver’s licence
• Full name, residential address and date of birth
• Business name and ABN (if purchasing or selling through a business)
• Information about trusts, ownership structures or beneficial owners
• Confirmation of how the property purchase is being funded, such as through a loan

In some circumstances, additional information may be requested if required under the legislation.

For most people, the process will feel familiar. It will be similar to opening a bank account or applying for finance.

Your privacy matters

We understand that providing personal information can feel sensitive, and your privacy remains extremely important to us.

The information collected is essential for us to meet our legal obligations under the new AML/CTF laws and will be handled securely in accordance with our Privacy Policy and the Privacy Act 1988.

Our team is preparing now to ensure the transition is smooth and to continue delivering the professional service our clients expect.

If you have questions about these changes or what they mean for your next property transaction, we’re here to help.

A few extra checks. A stronger and more secure property market for everyone.