Australia

Anti-Money Laundering

AUSTRAC CEO Details 'Systemic' AML Failings in Gambling Sector

By Manesh Samtani | 18/03/2026

Brendan Thomas called out recurring AML/CTF weaknesses and outlined AUSTRAC's expectations ahead of major legislative reforms.

Structural Regulation

Australia Releases Draft Rules for New AUD 3m Super Tax

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 18/03/2026

The regulations detail earnings calculations, defined benefit valuation methods, and transitional capital gains relief for funds ahead of the tax's commencement.

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

Australia Proposes Overhaul of Financial Adviser Education Standards

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 17/03/2026

The new framework would replace the requirement for a specific approved degree with a more flexible, subject-based model.

Cryptocurrency

ASIC Warns on Gen Z Against Taking Crypto Advice from Social Media, AI

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 17/03/2026

ASIC highlights risks from unregulated digital sources as new report shows surge in youth crypto ownership and speculative trading.

Custody & Infrastructure

Australia Senate Panel Endorses Bill on Digital Assets Regulation

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 17/03/2026

A parliamentary committee has recommended passing a landmark crypto bill, but the opposition wants a two-year review and action on 'debanking'.

Liquidity Risk

APRA to Consult on Amendments to Capital and Liquidity Rules

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 17/03/2026

APRA plans to tighten liquidity rules for authorised deposit-taking institutions, citing global risks, while recalibrating capital settings to support investment.

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

Australian Court Fines Macquarie Unit for Short Sale Reporting Failures

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 16/03/2026

Macquarie Securities was penalised for decade-long systems and control deficiencies that led to widespread misreporting.

Liquidity Risk

Australian Pension Giant Seeks to Overturn 30-year Borrowing Ban

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 13/03/2026

AustralianSuper is pushing to issue debt for liquidity, but critics warn the move could introduce unnecessary risk to the AUD 4.5 trillion superannuation system.

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

ASIC Warns Super Funds to Match Governance to Systemic Role

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 13/03/2026

ASIC official criticises super fund failings in complaints handling and scam prevention, flagging increased enforcement in private credit and member services.