Australia: Terrorism, Homeland Security & Defence

Australia's proposed capital gains tax reforms may inadvertently undermine government efforts to strengthen sovereign defence capability and innovation. As the nation faces increasing global instability and supply chain vulnerabilities, changes to the CGT regime could discourage investment in defence-focused startups precisely when such investment is most critical to national security objectives.

Australia’s AML/CTF framework has been significantly reformed, expanding obligations to new sectors including real estate professionals, lawyers, accountants, and precious metal dealers.

From 1 July 2026, Australian real estate businesses that broker, sell or transfer property may be required to enrol with AUSTRAC, implement a written AML/CTF programme and conduct customer due diligence before providing designated services

The new AML/CTF Act & Rules will come into effect on 31 March 2026 for all existing Reporting Entities.

AUSTRAC has released its Regulatory Priorities for 2025-26.

The AML/CTF Amendment Act legally requires reporting entities to appoint a fit-and-proper, management-level AML/CTF Compliance Officer under strengthened governance rules.

Whether or not to form a Reporting Group is a pressing strategic decision post AML/CTF reforms.

AML/CTF Program is a key tool to protect your business from being used for the purpose of facilitating money-laundering or terrorism-financing activities.

High-level overview of some of the changes introduced under the reforms.