Organisations need to be confident they’ve taken correct action when it comes to safeguarding their business from the risk of money-laundering and terrorism-financing.
Money laundering (ML) is the processing of criminal profits to disguise their illegal origin. Terrorism Financing (TF) includes the financing of terrorist acts or any kind of terrorist organisation. This can occur all different types of businesses.
High-profile breaches and significant regulatory action exposing businesses to substantial financial penalties and reputational damage has been in the spotlight.
Australia has commenced the largest AML reform since 2006 to align Australia’s AML regime with standards recommended by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). The reforms will have significant implications for existing reporting entities as well as the additional real estate, legal and accounting professions under the ‘Tranche 2’ updates.
Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act
Australia has a strong regime in place to combat financial crime. AUSTRAC regulates Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006.
AUSTRAC has widened its focus on who is affected by Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing laws, and they have changed how frequently you must review your policies and programs (every two years) and by who (independent reviewer).
Reporting Entities must have an Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Program specifying how they comply with the legislation. These programs are vital in identifying, disrupting and preventing money laundering and terrorism financing, protecting your organisation, community and Australia from criminal activity.