AML Changes for Real Estate from 1 July 2026: What Sellers Need to Know
By Karyn O'Dea | Ray White Robina
From 1 July 2026, a significant change comes into effect for Australia's real estate industry with the introduction of the expanded Anti Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) reforms.
While these changes introduce a few additional steps during the selling process, they have one clear purpose: to make property transactions more secure, transparent and protected for everyone involved.
At Team Karyn O'Dea, we've been preparing well ahead of these changes so our clients continue to enjoy a smooth and stress free experience.
Why Are These Changes Being Introduced?
The Australian Government is expanding AML/CTF legislation to include the real estate industry as part of a nationwide effort to reduce financial crime.
Buying and selling property involves significant financial transactions, making the industry an important part of Australia's framework for preventing money laundering, fraud and terrorism financing.
These reforms also bring Australia more closely in line with international best practice.
What Will Change?
From 1 July 2026, real estate agencies will be legally required to complete additional identity verification and compliance checks before progressing with certain property transactions.
This may include:
Verifying the identity of property sellers.
Confirming ownership and authority to sell.
Completing additional due diligence where required by law.
Maintaining compliance records throughout the transaction.
For most sellers, these additional steps will simply become part of the standard sales process.
What Does This Mean for Sellers?
If you're planning to sell your home, you may be asked to provide identification documents earlier than you have in the past.
Your agent may also ask a few additional questions to satisfy their legal obligations under the new legislation.
Although this introduces a small amount of extra administration, the changes are designed to better protect property owners and strengthen the integrity of Australia's real estate market.
How Team Karyn O'Dea Is Preparing
Our team has been working behind the scenes to ensure we're fully prepared before the legislation comes into effect.
We've updated our systems, completed staff training and implemented new compliance procedures so we can continue providing the professional service our clients expect.
Most importantly, we'll guide you through every step of the process, explain any additional requirements and make the transition as straightforward as possible.
What This Means for the Market Right Now
For buyers and sellers, these reforms shouldn't be viewed as an obstacle. Instead, they represent another step towards creating a safer and more transparent property market.
While there may be a little more paperwork involved, the buying and selling experience should remain familiar, with experienced agents helping clients navigate the new requirements with confidence.
A Market Built on Trust
Real estate is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will make, and these reforms are designed to strengthen confidence across the entire industry.
From 1 July 2026, identity verification and compliance will become a standard part of selling property, and our team is ready to ensure the process is handled efficiently and professionally.
If you're thinking about selling your home or simply have questions about how the new AML/CTF laws may affect you, we'd be happy to help explain the changes and guide you through the process.