Australia

Enforcement

ASIC Nets Record Penalties in H2 2025, Puts Super Trustees on Notice

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 25/02/2026

ASIC secured a "record-breaking" AUD 349.8 million in civil penalties in the second half of 2025 in response to "serious misconduct".

Fintech / Regtech

Australian Finance Industry Urges RBA to Mandate Open Access to iPhone Payments

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 25/02/2026

In a submission to a parliamentary inquiry, finance body AFIA has argued that Apple's control over the iPhone's NFC chip requires regulatory intervention.

AML / KYC

AUSTRAC Publishes Proposed Funding Model for 2025-26

By Mark Johnston | 24/02/2026

The regulator is seeking stakeholder feedback on its proposed funding model, which exempts Tranche 2 entities pending a future comprehensive review.

Enforcement

ASIC Details Regulatory Response to Collapsed Super Funds

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 24/02/2026

ASIC has nearly 50 staff working across 26 separate investigations connected to the Shield and First Guardian super fund collapses.

Sanctions

Australia Sanctions Russian Crypto Firms as EU Package Stalls

By Manesh Samtani | 24/02/2026

Australia's measures designate several virtual asset service providers, while in Europe, Hungary has vetoed the EU’s 20th sanctions package.

Sanctions

Australian Sanctions on Russia Undermined by 'Blood Oil', Asset Loopholes

By Manesh Samtani | 24/02/2026

A parliamentary inquiry has heard that loopholes for refined oil and hidden assets, plus weak enforcement, are undermining the sanctions.

Australia Details New Superannuation Retirement Reporting Rules

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 22/02/2026

New framework mandates data collection from 2027, with public reporting by APRA to begin in 2028, detailing member outcomes and product uptake.

Australia Issues Licensing Guidance for Employee Entitlement Schemes

By Mark Johnston | 20/02/2026

Operators must apply for a licence by 1 September and will face new governance and disclosure rules under a transitional framework.

Enforcement

ASIC Probes Lead Generation Arrangements That May Harm Consumers

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 19/02/2026

ASIC has launched a review into high-risk sales tactics used to switch super funds, publicly listing lead generators and advice licensees.