As part of our commitment to keeping clients informed and prepared, Fox Real Estate would like to make you aware of important changes to Australian property transaction requirements that will come into effect from 1 July 2026.
The Australian Government is expanding its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) framework to include the real estate industry. As a result, all real estate agencies across Australia will be required to verify the identity of clients involved in certain property transactions.
While this represents a significant regulatory change for the industry, the process for buyers and sellers will be straightforward. Similar identity verification requirements have been part of the banking sector for many years and are designed to help strengthen the integrity and security of Australia’s property market.
What Is Changing?
From 1 July 2026, real estate agencies will be required to undertake identity verification checks as part of meeting their obligations under Australia’s expanded AML/CTF legislation. These reforms are intended to reduce the risk of money laundering, financial crime and other unlawful activities occurring through property transactions.
As part of these requirements, agencies must take reasonable steps to verify the identity of clients before proceeding with certain transactions and services. The reforms form part of a broader national initiative to strengthen Australia’s financial system and align with international best-practice standards. For further information regarding the reforms, visit the official Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) website: AUSTRAC AML/CTF Reforms
What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers?
This process is expected to be simple and efficient and may involve providing: If you are buying or selling property through Fox Real Estate after 1 July 2026, you may be required to complete an identity verification process as part of your transaction.
- A current driver’s licence or passport
- Supporting identification documents where required
- Information necessary to satisfy legislative requirements
The exact documentation required may vary depending on the circumstances of the transaction. Importantly, any information collected will be managed securely and confidentially in accordance with applicable privacy and compliance obligations.
How Fox Real Estate Has Prepared
At Fox Real Estate, we have been proactively preparing for these changes to ensure our clients experience a smooth and seamless transition. Our preparation has included:
- Comprehensive AML/CTF training across our team
- The implementation of compliant systems and procedures
- The adoption of technology designed to streamline identity verification
- The establishment of internal compliance and risk-management processes
Our goal is simple, to ensure clients can continue buying and selling property with confidence while meeting the new legal requirements efficiently and professionally.
What You Need to Remember
If you are buying or selling property from 1 July 2026 onwards:
✓ Identity verification will become a standard part of the transaction process
✓ Fox Real Estate will clearly explain what is required
✓ Your personal information will be handled securely and confidentially
✓ Our team will guide you through each step of the process
For most clients, these changes will simply become another routine part of buying or selling property.
Our Commitment to You
Property transactions can already feel complex enough without additional regulatory requirements. That’s why our focus remains on providing clear communication, practical guidance and exceptional service at every stage of the process. As these reforms come into effect, our team will continue to support buyers and sellers by making compliance as straightforward and stress-free as possible. If you have any questions about the upcoming AML/CTF requirements or how they may apply to your property transaction, please contact the Fox Real Estate team.
We are here to help.
Fox Real Estate
The hunt is over
Last Updated: June 2026
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is general in nature and is provided for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy at the time of publication, it does not constitute legal, financial, taxation or compliance advice. Readers should obtain independent professional advice relevant to their individual circumstances.