Australia

AML / KYC

Australia Moves to Single Public Register for Beneficial Ownership

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 16/10/2025

The government has streamlined its approach, scrapping a two-stage plan in favour of a direct, Commonwealth-operated public database for unlisted companies.

Enforcement

ASIC Expands Probe into Mortgage Broking Practices

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 15/10/2025

ASIC has flagged new surveillances targeting misconduct in the credit sector, with a continued focus on financial hardship and debt collection.

Enforcement

APRA Lifts Final A$500 Million Capital Add-On From Westpac

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 15/10/2025

The move follows the bank's completion of a multi-year risk remediation programme required under a 2020 court enforceable undertaking.

Securities / Derivatives

Australia Braces for New Regulations in Private Credit Market

By Blake Evans-Pritchard | 15/10/2025

Industry favours a voluntary code, but new regulation for the private credit market could yet be on the cards, experts say.

ASIC Criticises Super Funds for ‘Superficial’ Retirement Communications

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 15/10/2025

ASIC has found a lack of urgency among trustees in improving member engagement, with significant gaps in support for vulnerable groups.

Enforcement

ASIC Amends Lawsuit Against Equity Trustees Over Shield Fund Losses

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 15/10/2025

ASIC has amended its lawsuit against the superannuation trustee, adding a claim for member compensation to its initial penalty action.

Australia Revamps Super Taxes for High Earners, Boosts Low-Income Support

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 14/10/2025

The government has delayed and redesigned a controversial tax on large superannuation balances and will increase a tax offset for low-income workers.

Sanctions

Australia Introduces Sanctions Bill Targeting State Sponsors of Terrorism

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 14/10/2025

The new legal framework would create offences for financing or supporting listed state entities and remove their immunity from civil proceedings.

Market Infrastructure

ASIC Warns of 'Significant' Gaps in Offshore Outsourcing Controls

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 13/10/2025

A review by ASIC has found serious weaknesses in how financial advice licensees and fund managers oversee offshore providers, exposing consumers to harm.