Australia

Enforcement

ASIC Sues Superannuation Trustee Over Shield Master Fund Losses

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 27/08/2025

ASIC alleges Equity Trustees failed to properly vet the Shield Master Fund before offering it to thousands of members, compromising around AUD 160 million in savings.

Sanctions

Australian Sanctions Office Overhauls Consolidated List Format

By Manesh Samtani | 26/08/2025

DFAT’s Asset Freezing division introduces alias strength ratings and standardised data fields for the Consolidated List from 1 November 2025.

Fintech / Regtech

Australian Super Funds Urges ASIC to Create Digital Disclosure Sandbox

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 26/08/2025

Australia's industry body for super funds has called on ASIC to provide a safe testing environment for innovative communication methods like infographics and modular content.

AML / KYC

De-Banking Demystified: Australian Court Case Highlights AML 'Tightrope Walk' for Banks

By Nathan Lynch | 26/08/2025

An Australian bank’s decision to close the accounts belonging to a Middle Eastern charity has highlighted the need to take a measured approach to “de-banking” decisions.

Capital / Liquidity

APRA Consults on Updates to Prudential and Reporting Standards

By Editors | 26/08/2025

Proposed tweaks include revised terminology, online document access and retirement of pandemic planning guide, effective January 2026

Fintech / Regtech

Australian Banks Challenge RBA Over Card Fee Overhaul

By Mark Johnston | 25/08/2025

The RBA is facing resistance from major banks over its proposed payments system reforms, as concerns shift from interchange fees to opaque scheme charges.

Market Infrastructure

Third-Party Risk Takes Centre Stage in Australia

By Blake Evans-Pritchard | 25/08/2025

APRA’s new op risk framework compels financial institutions to pay closer attention to third-party concentration risk.

AML / KYC

Global Laundering Syndicates Targeting Australian Real Estate: AUSTRAC

By Nathan Lynch | 22/08/2025

Australia is tackling a surge in illicit funds as global crime syndicates seek to exploit its stable economy and booming property market, ahead of the "Tranche 2" AML/CTF reforms.

Trending

AUSTRAC Orders External AML Audit of Crypto Exchange Binance

By Editors | 22/08/2025

AUSTRAC cited serious concerns with Binance's AML controls, governance, and a lack of understanding of local Australian risks.