Where do I start?
Checklist
- Check to see if you are providing a designated service
- Appoint a Governing Body, Compliance Officer, and Senior Manager
- Enrol with AUSTRAC within 28 days of providing a designated service
- Develop your AML/CTF Program
- Check and train staff on AML/CTF obligations and ML/TF risks
- Undertake customer (client) due diligence (CDD)
- Understand your reporting obligations
- Recording requirements
- Be aware of independent evaluation obligations
- Privacy compliance
Download the flowchart to understand your journey to AML/CTF compliance.
Frequently asked questions
Learn more about Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) requirements, obligations, and processes.
QLS Resources
- A practitioner’s roadmap to AML - QLS Proctor
- AML/CTF Compliance: A Practitioner's Pre-Reading Checklist
- AML/CTF RegTech Checklist
- AML/CTF Guide for Clients
- AML/CTF Customer Due Diligence Lifecycle Map
- Business Advisory Service
- Practice Advisory Service
- Costs precedents
- Reliance agreement guidance
- QLS AML/CTF YouTube playlist
- AML Sorted with Amy Bell 2026 - free webinar recordings
- Designated services and source of wealth checks guidance
Anti-Money Laundering Roadshow 2026
The QLS AML/CTF Roadshow provides an overview on anti-money laundering obligations for solicitors offering ‘designated services’ and explores how to implement a compliant AML/CTF Program.
This recording is available on the QLS Shop.
Law Council of Australia resources
Consultations and submissions
QLS and the Law Council of Australia have undertaken advocacy on this issue since 2007.
History of AML
AML/CTF refers to a set of laws, regulations, and procedures designed to prevent criminals from disguising illegally obtained funds as legitimate income. The AML/CTF Act was passed in 2006 and initially was aimed at certain sectors such as banks, casinos and bullion dealers (known as Tranche 1 entities). The amendments that have now come into force have extended AML/CTF obligations and compliance to Tranche 2 entities that include professions such as legal practitioners, accountants, conveyancers and real estate agents.