Australia Proposes Stricter AML/CTF Rules for Cryptocurrency Industry

Australia is moving to tighten its grip on the cryptocurrency industry with the introduction of stricter Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CTF) rules.

The proposed rules, unveiled by the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (AUSTRAC), aim to enhance oversight of high-risk sectors, including cryptocurrency exchanges, legal services, and real estate businesses.

Key Features of the Proposed Rules:

• Expanded Oversight: The framework expands regulatory oversight of high-risk sectors, including stricter customer due diligence (CDD) measures, improved reporting group definitions, and tighter Travel Rule obligations for international transfers.
• Enhanced Compliance: Businesses will be required to verify customer identities, monitor suspicious transactions, and maintain transparency for cross-border asset transfers.
• Outcomes-Based Approach: The proposed framework shifts towards an outcomes-based compliance model, allowing businesses to tailor their compliance measures based on their specific risk profiles while maintaining rigorous standards.
• Public Consultation: The draft rules are open for public consultation until February 14, 2025, allowing stakeholders to provide feedback before the final framework is implemented.

Increased Regulatory Scrutiny

This move reflects a growing trend of increased regulatory scrutiny on the cryptocurrency industry in Australia. Recently, AUSTRAC established a task force to crack down on crypto ATM operators, aiming to minimize the risk of illicit finance flowing through these machines.

Industry Impact:

The proposed rules will likely have a significant impact on the cryptocurrency industry in Australia. Businesses will need to adapt their compliance programs to meet the new requirements, which could involve significant investments in technology and personnel.

December 2024, Cryptoniteuae