AML/CTF Expert Advises Strategic Preparation Following Release of Long-Awaited New Rules

John Rayment | CEO of BNDRY

BNDRY has welcomed AUSTRAC’s tabling of the new Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Rules in Parliament, while cautioning real estate organisations to take a strategic and educated approach ahead of the July 1, 2026 commencement date.

The Australian technology company — which helps some of the world’s largest payment providers reduce their financial crime risks — says the reforms represent the most significant expansion of Australia’s AML/CTF regime in recent history.

The new laws will extend financial crime compliance obligations beyond banks, casinos, pubs and clubs, remittance providers and digital currency exchanges to a wide range of new sectors, including real estate and conveyancing.

The amendments will create tens of thousands of new reporting entities, including thousands of real estate organisations.

“There has understandably been a lot of speculation, differing opinions and uncertainty floating around the real estate industry.

Now that the new AML/CTF rules have been released, organisations can begin to take concrete steps to plan for their implementation,” says John Rayment, CEO of BNDRY.

“These regulations are common in other industries and countries, and there is no reason why they cannot be implemented in Australia’s advanced and highly successful real estate industry.”

Mr Rayment recommends that organisations consider creating a dedicated working group or leadership team tasked with developing their AML/CTF compliance strategy. 

“This could include business leaders, on-ground agents, and engaging legal advisers,” he says. “Such a group can help shape strategy and ensure a smooth transition to compliance with the Act.”

He also urges organisations to seek solutions that prioritise simplicity.

“Complying with the regulations may at first seem onerous, but good solution providers will remove operational complexity.

Solutions should integrate smoothly with current systems and processes, without disrupting the business too much,” Mr Rayment says.

While the new obligations are still almost a year away, organisations will benefit from early preparation and testing according to Mr Rayment.

“Education, training, testing, and refinement are key to successfully implementing a new financial crime compliance program. We are encouraging our partners to make solutions available earlier than the 1 July 2026 deadline so they can transition smoothly with our support,” Mr Rayment says.

He adds that while there is no need to rush decisions, early engagement with experts will undoubtedly deliver a more successful transition.

“We are already in discussions with leading real estate groups who want to be ahead of the curve in regard to the new regulations.

These early engagements are helping us better understand their business models and develop solutions tailored to their specific needs.

“While there’s no need to panic about, or fear, the new regulations, our experience in other industries shows that organisations who seek expert advice early and take a proactive, strategic approach usually enjoy the smoothest transitions,” Mr Rayment says.