Australia

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

AFCA to Update Guidelines for Handling Abuse-related Complaints

By Thisanka Siripala | 25/03/2025

AFCA has set out an updated approach for handling complaints involving family violence and financial elder abuse.

Anti-Money Laundering

NZ DIA Issues Formal Warning to NZForex for AML Failures

By Thisanka Siripala | 25/03/2025

3,182 transactions over six years were not reported to the FIU due to a system issue that was identified and self-reported by NZForex.

Structural Regulation

ACCC Opens Consultation on Merger Assessment Guidelines

By Thisanka Siripala | 25/03/2025

The draft guidelines outline the framework the ACCC will use when assessing notified acquisitions under the new merger control regime.

Reporting & Disclosures

APAC’s Evolving Climate Regulations Are Reshaping Business Strategy

By Catherine Bell | 25/03/2025

In APAC, climate reporting is not just a compliance obligation; it is a strategic tool driving long-term resilience, writes Catherine Bell.

Custody & Infrastructure

Australia Outlines Next Steps for Digital Asset Regulation

By Thisanka Siripala | 24/03/2025

A framework for digital asset platforms will be established, covering trading platforms, custody products, some brokerage arrangements, and certain other services.

Structural Regulation

Australia Drafts Bill to Modernise Financial Advice Laws

By Thisanka Siripala | 24/03/2025

The bill aims to implement reforms to improve the delivery of high-quality, accessible, and affordable financial advice for retail clients.

Anti-Money Laundering

Australia’s Tipping-Off Reforms Set to Bolster AML Information Sharing

By Nathan Lynch | 24/03/2025

Australia’s new “tipping off” laws will give banks and other reporting entities far more flexibility in the way they handle sensitive information, writes Nathan Lynch.

Anti-Money Laundering

AUSTRAC Issues Guidance on Tipping Off Offence Effective 31 March

By Thisanka Siripala | 21/03/2025

From 31 March 2025, disclosing certain information that could prejudice an investigation will become a criminal offence.

Payments & Settlements

Australia Mandates Payday Superannuation Contributions

By Mark Johnston | 21/03/2025

To boost retirement security and simplify payroll processes, employers need to align superannuation payments with salaries by 2026.