New AML/CTF rules hit real estate.
Get your clauses ready.
From 1 July 2026, anti-money-laundering checks become part of property transactions across Australia — Victoria included. Agents who prepare now protect their commissions and settlement dates. We've drafted the clauses you need, and you can have them free.
Why this lands on your desk
You're the first person in the transaction. The words you use when you list a property set up everything that follows — including whether the AML/CTF checks are smooth or a scramble.
It starts 1 July 2026
The AML/CTF reforms extend across the property sector. Every sale you write from that date can involve identity and verification steps — and the ones that aren't ready are the ones that stall.
Unmanaged, it delays settlement
If a party can't or won't complete verification, a matter can grind to a halt near settlement. That's your commission, your vendor's move, and your reputation on the line.
Managed, it's a non-event
The right words in your authority and the contract set expectations early, get consent up front, and give everyone a clear path if a check takes longer than expected.
A simple, two-part framework
You don't need to become an AML expert. You need the right words in two documents. Here's how they fit together.
Pillar 1
Authority clauses
Wording for your sales authority / agency agreement that gets the vendor's informed consent to identity checks, authorises you to collect and pass on the right information, and sets expectations from day one.
- Consent to collect & verify ID
- Authority to share with the conveyancer
- Clear expectations, signed up front
Pillar 2
Contract-of-Sale special condition
A special condition for the contract that requires both parties to cooperate with AML/CTF verification, deals fairly with timing if a check runs late, and allocates risk without turning a delay into an automatic breach.
- Both parties must cooperate
- Sensible timing & extension mechanism
- Risk allocated, drafted fairly
Get the full pack, drafted by lawyers
We've done the hard part. Request the pack and we'll email you ready-to-use wording, plus short notes so you know exactly what each clause does. No cost, no obligation.
Acting for buyers or sellers too?
Our client-facing AML/CTF notice explains the checks in plain English — handy to point your clients to. Or partner with us to refer clients and track every matter.
Request the clause pack
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Important — please read
This page and any clauses referred to on it are general information about the AML/CTF reforms and are not legal advice. They are provided to help real estate professionals understand the upcoming changes and do not take into account your particular circumstances or any specific transaction.
The AML/CTF reforms take effect from 1 July 2026, and AUSTRAC guidance and the supporting rules are still being finalised. The obligations that apply to you, and any suggested clause wording, may change before and after that date. Always confirm the current position before relying on it. Last updated June 2026.
Your own AML/CTF obligations depend on the services you provide and your role in a transaction. This page does not determine whether, or how, the regime applies to your agency.
Reading this page, or requesting the clause pack, does not create a solicitor–client relationship or a retainer, and no duty of care is assumed until we have agreed to act for you in writing. You should obtain your own legal advice before adopting any clause in your agency agreements or contracts. See our Terms and Privacy Policy.
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