New AML/CTF rules for property: what buyers may need to know

Buying property already involves contracts, finance, identification and plenty of paperwork.

From 1 July 2026, Australia’s expanded Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) framework will extend to additional professional services, including certain real estate services.

For Brisbane property buyers and investors, this means you may notice some additional identification and verification checks when purchasing property.

Here’s what you need to know.

What are AML/CTF rules?

AML/CTF stands for Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing.

The purpose of these laws is to reduce the risk of legitimate businesses and financial transactions being used to hide the source of money or move funds for illegal purposes.

As part of the expanded framework, certain property professionals will have additional obligations to:

• identify and verify customers;

• understand who is involved in a transaction;

• identify the people who ultimately own or control an entity; and

• carry out additional checks where required.

For most buyers, this simply means more information may need to be provided before a transaction can proceed.

What does this mean if you're buying property?

You may be asked to provide information such as:

• Full name

• Date of birth

• Residential address

• Contact details

• Passport or driver's licence

• Other identification documents

If you're purchasing through a company, trust or another entity, additional information may be required.

This could include:

• ABN or ACN details

• Company or trust documents

• Director or trustee details

• Details of authorised representatives

• Information about the people who ultimately own or control the entity

You may also be asked questions about the transaction or source of funds, depending on the circumstances.

Buying through a company or trust?

If your Brisbane investment property is being purchased through a company, trust or other structure, expect the verification process to be more involved than purchasing in your personal name.

The important thing is to have your ownership structure and supporting documents ready.

If you're unsure about the correct structure for your investment, speak with your accountant or solicitor before signing a contract.

Does this mean something is wrong with your purchase?

No.

These checks are part of a broader regulatory framework applying across relevant parts of the property and professional services sectors.

Being asked to provide identification or additional information does not mean that there is a problem with you or your purchase.

Think of it as another compliance step in the property transaction - similar to providing identification to a bank or completing verification when establishing a financial account.

What can cause delays?

The biggest issue for buyers is often simply missing or incomplete information.

For example:

• expired identification;

• incorrect names or addresses;

• missing company or trust documents;

• unclear ownership structures;

• information that doesn't match the contract; or

• delays in providing requested documents.

Getting your paperwork organised early can help keep the transaction moving.

What should buyers do now?

1. Have your ID ready

Make sure your passport, driver's licence or other identification documents are current.

2. Know how you're buying

If you're purchasing through a company or trust, have your relevant documentation available.

3. Understand your ownership structure

Investors should speak with their accountant or solicitor before purchasing, particularly if they're considering a company, trust or other structure.

4. Respond quickly

If your property representative requests additional information, providing it promptly can help avoid unnecessary delays.

What about international buyers?

For international purchasers, additional identification and verification requirements may apply depending on the buyer, ownership structure and transaction.

This can be particularly relevant for buyers purchasing Brisbane property from overseas or through international entities.

If you're an international buyer, allow additional time for documentation and verification.

What does this mean for Octave Realty clients?

At Octave Realty, our goal is to make the property process as clear and straightforward as possible.

As regulations evolve, you may be asked to provide additional information as part of the required compliance process.

If information is required from you, we'll explain what is needed and where it needs to be provided.

The earlier your documents are ready, the easier the process can be.

The takeaway

The expanded AML/CTF framework is another change Brisbane property buyers and investors should be aware of from 1 July 2026.

For most buyers, the practical impact is straightforward:

More verification. More documentation. Potentially a few more questions.

It doesn't necessarily mean a more complicated property purchase — but it does mean buyers should be prepared.

If you're buying an investment property, purchasing through a company or trust, or buying from overseas, it's worth getting your structure and documentation organised before you start the transaction.

At Octave Realty, we believe property should come with clarity - not confusion.

Disclaimer

This article provides general information only and is not legal, financial, tax or compliance advice. AML/CTF obligations can vary depending on the services provided, the transaction and the purchaser's circumstances. Buyers should obtain independent advice from a qualified solicitor, accountant or other appropriate professional where required.