How The 2026 AML/CTF Reforms Affect Conveyancing Clients
From 1 July 2026, certain conveyancing services became subject to expanded anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing requirements in Australia. For buyers and sellers, this may mean a few extra checks during the conveyancing process.
In this guide, we explain what the 2026 AML/CTF changes may mean for your property transaction and answer common questions about identity checks, beneficial ownership and source of funds.
How do the AML/CTF changes in 2026 affect conveyancing clients?
For clients, the main difference is that your conveyancer may ask a few more questions or request extra documents as part of the transaction.
The AML/CTF reform requires businesses providing designated conveyancing services to carry out customer due diligence. This can include confirming your identity and, where relevant, identifying the people who ultimately own or control a company, trust or other entity involved.
Depending on your circumstances, you may also be asked to explain where the money being used for the transaction has come from.
What information might your conveyancer ask you to provide?
The AML/CTF requirements for conveyancers may involve requests for:
- Additional documents confirming your identity
- Beneficial ownership details where a company, trust or other entity is involved
- Documents or information showing the source of funds used for the transaction
- Extra information where the circumstances require further checks
These checks form part of the risk-based approach to AML/CTF in Australia, so you shouldn’t expect every buyer or seller to be asked for the same documents.
Providing complete information promptly can help reduce unnecessary back-and-forth during the conveyancing process.
Do extra AML/CTF checks mean something is wrong?
No. If your conveyancer asks for additional information, it doesn’t automatically mean they suspect you of wrongdoing.
These are standard compliance measures that help regulated businesses meet their legal obligations. If you’re unsure why something has been requested, your conveyancer can talk you through what’s needed and how it relates to your purchase or sale.
Have questions about the new AML/CTF requirements?
If you have questions or concerns about the new AML/CTF requirements, Sunstate Conveyancing can explain what the changes may mean for your purchase or sale and what you may be asked to provide.
Our experienced conveyancers and lawyers support clients across Queensland with residential and commercial transactions, along with related property requirements such as clearance certificates.
Contact our team if you’d like to discuss your upcoming property transaction or have questions about what’s required.
This information is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. AML/CTF requirements may vary depending on the circumstances of your transaction.
