Anti-Money Laundering & Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF)
Make ContactAnti-Money Laundering (AML/CTF)
Anti-Money Laundering & Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF)
Our Commitment to Protecting Our Clients and the Community
MBA Lawyers is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and complying with Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) laws.
From 1 July 2026, amendments to the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006 (Cth) require law firms providing certain legal services to undertake identity verification and client due diligence before acting on behalf of their clients.
These requirements are mandatory and apply to all law firms providing designated legal services.
Why We Need to Collect Information
Depending on the type of legal matter, we may ask you to provide information or documentation so we can meet our legal obligations. This may include:
- Verifying your identity.
- Confirming the purpose and nature of your transaction or matter.
- Identifying the individuals who own or control a company, trust or other entity.
- Providing information regarding the source of funds or source of wealth connected with a transaction.
- Confirming that previously supplied information remains accurate and up to date.
- Supplying any additional information or documentation required under the AML/CTF legislation.
These checks help reduce the risk of money laundering, terrorism financing and other financial crimes while protecting our clients and the integrity of Australia’s financial system.
When Do the AML/CTF Requirements Apply?
The legislation applies to specific legal services known as designated services. Depending on your circumstances, these may include matters involving:
- Buying, selling or transferring real property.
- Buying or selling a business or business assets.
- Establishing, restructuring or transferring companies, trusts or other legal entities.
- Managing client funds, securities or other assets.
- Creating or administering corporations, trusts, partnerships or similar arrangements.
- Mergers, acquisitions and other corporate transactions.
- Other transactions prescribed by the AML/CTF legislation.
Not every legal matter is subject to these requirements. Your lawyer will advise you if your matter falls within the scope of the legislation.
If We Cannot Verify Your Information
Before we can provide designated legal services, we are required by law to complete certain identity verification and client due diligence procedures.
If the required information is not provided, or we are unable to satisfactorily complete our verification obligations, we may be unable to accept instructions, continue to act on your behalf or complete your transaction.
Our Commitment to You
We appreciate that these additional requirements may be unfamiliar and, at times, require extra documentation. Our team will guide you through the process and will endeavour to make it as simple, efficient and secure as possible.
If you have any questions about the AML/CTF requirements or the information we request, please speak with the lawyer managing your matter.
Further information about Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing regime is available from the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC).
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Frequently Ask Questions
What is AML/CTF?
AML/CTF stands for Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing. Australian law requires law firms providing certain designated legal services to verify client identities and conduct client due diligence to help prevent financial crime.
Why do I need to provide identification?
We are legally required to verify the identity of clients before providing certain legal services. This helps protect our clients, our firm and Australia’s financial system from money laundering and terrorism financing.
What information may I be asked to provide?
Depending on your matter, we may request:
- Proof of identity.
- Information about the purpose and nature of your transaction.
- Details of company or trust ownership.
- Information about the source of funds or source of wealth.
- Other documentation required under the AML/CTF legislation.
Do these requirements apply to every legal matter?
No. The AML/CTF requirements only apply to certain legal services known as designated services. Your lawyer will let you know if these obligations apply to your matter.
What happens if I don’t provide the required information?
If we are unable to complete the required identity verification or client due diligence, we may be legally unable to accept instructions, continue acting for you or complete your transaction.
Is my personal information kept secure?
Yes. We handle your personal information in accordance with our legal and professional obligations and take appropriate measures to protect your privacy and the security of your information.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
Get in Touch
with MBA Lawyers
Understanding AML/CTF Requirements for Your Legal Matter
From 1 July 2026, Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) laws require law firms providing certain legal services to undertake identity verification and client due diligence.
At MBA Lawyers, we are committed to making this process simple, secure and efficient while ensuring compliance with our legal obligations.
If your matter is affected, our team will guide you through every step and answer any questions you may have.
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