Our Approach to AML & KYC

From 1 July 2026, new federal laws require real estate agencies to verify client identity and assess financial risk. Here's what that means for you.

Australia's Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) Act is designed to stop illegal funds from entering the financial system. AUSTRAC estimates more than $68 billion worth of crime-related money moves through Australia every year.

From 1 July 2026, real estate agencies like Whitford are required by law to verify client identity, assess the risk of money laundering, and monitor and report suspicious activity.

This isn't about adding friction to your experience. It's about protecting the integrity of the property market and keeping crime out of our communities.

Every check we complete is a standard part of the new process — it applies equally to every client, regardless of how long we've worked together.

Learn more about the reforms at AUSTRAC

What to expect

Why we need your ID — and what we may ask for

As part of our legal obligations, we may need to collect certain documents before or during any property transaction. This applies to buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants.

A form of photo ID — passport or driver's licence
Proof of address — such as a utility bill or bank statement
Company, trust or SMSF documentation (if relevant to your transaction)
Details about the ownership or control of complex entities
Source of funds information for higher-value or higher-risk transactions

If you're acting on behalf of a company, trust or other structure, we're also required to identify the individuals who ultimately own or control it. This is a key part of understanding who we're working with.

How it works

A clear, straightforward process

We've designed our compliance process to be as smooth as possible. Most clients complete it quickly once documents are provided.

Share your details
We'll request basic identity information and any relevant documents at the start of your engagement with us.
Verify your information
Identity and ownership details are checked securely through approved verification systems.
Clarify anything missing
If further documents or explanations are needed, we'll let you know promptly and clearly.
Complete the assessment
We review your matter, assess risk as required under the legislation, and finalise the required checks.
Move forward together
Once checks are complete, we get on with the work of finding or selling your property.

Your privacy

How your information is handled

We take your privacy and data security seriously. Any information you provide is handled in accordance with Australian privacy laws, our professional obligations, and strict AML/CTF regulatory requirements.

Our commitment to you

We only collect what is required by law
Your data is stored securely and handled in confidence
Information is used only for identity verification and regulatory compliance

We do not share your information for marketing purposes
We do not sell or trade client data
Documents are accessed only by authorised staff through protected systems

Questions about the process?

We're happy to walk you through what's required before you get started. Reach out to the team and we'll keep it simple.

Get in touch

This page has been prepared for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal or compliance advice. Whitford Property recommends that any questions about your specific obligations be directed to a qualified legal or compliance professional. For more information on Australia's AML/CTF reforms visit austrac.gov.au.

Insights / Compliance