Australia

Fintech / Regtech

Australia Considers Overhaul of Fintech Sandbox Amid Low Uptake, Scope Concerns

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 18/12/2025

Treasury review seeks feedback on why its regulatory sandbox has struggled, floating ideas from international models and new thematic sandboxes.

Fintech / Regtech

ACCC Calls for New Powers to Address AI Risks to Competition, Consumers

By Manesh Samtani | 17/12/2025

New report details risks from vertical integration, AI-washing and scams, reiterating calls for a digital competition regime.

Market Infrastructure

Australia Abandons 2030 Target to Retire BECS Payments System

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 17/12/2025

An industry body cited challenges in migrating to modern alternatives, even as the country's real-time payment network sees rapid growth.

Enforcement

Former CEO Shayne Elliott Sues ANZ Over Bonus Payment Cut

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 16/12/2025

Shayne Elliott is suing ANZ after his long-term bonuses were cut to zero, a move the bank defends as being in line with APRA's prudential regulations.

ESG / Sustainability

ASIC Updates Guidance on Conflicts of Interest Management

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 16/12/2025

ASIC has issued updated guidance on conflicts of interest, warning that disclosure alone is often insufficient to manage them effectively.

AML / KYC

AUSTRAC Publishes More Guidance Ahead of Major AML Reforms

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 16/12/2025

AUSTRAC has released a suite of educational materials to help firms prepare for upcoming AML law changes.

AML / KYC

AUSTRAC Revokes Remitter's Registration, Sues Two Others Over AML Reporting

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 16/12/2025

AUSTRAC has refused to renew the registration of an independent remitter while also launching civil penalty proceedings against two businesses for failing to meet their reporting obligations under the AML/CTF Act.

ESG / Sustainability

Splintering Political Unity Heightens Australia’s Climate Transition Risk

By Blake Evans-Pritchard | 16/12/2025

The Liberal Party’s backslide on net zero commitments risks weakening Australia’s credibility ahead of COP31 in November 2026.

ESG / Sustainability

ASIC Releases First Educational Modules for New Climate Reporting Rules

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 16/12/2025

The resources aim to help smaller companies and suppliers understand mandatory sustainability disclosure requirements.