McInnes Wilson Lawyers is committed to helping prevent money laundering, terrorism financing and other serious financial crime.

Under Australia's Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006, from 1 July 2026, law firms that provide certain regulated legal services are required to collect and verify client information before providing those services.

These obligations are a legal requirement and apply across a range of professional services.

Why we may ask for information

When providing certain legal services, we may ask you to:

• Verify your identity;

• Provide information about the purpose of a transaction or matter;

• Identify the individuals who own or control a company, trust or other entity;

• Provide information about the source of funds or source of wealth associated with a transaction;

• Confirm that your information remains current and accurate; and

• Provide additional information or documentation where required by law.

Collecting this information helps protect clients, businesses and the broader community from financial crime while supporting a safe and secure financial system.

Legal services that are subject to AML/CTF requirements

The AML/CTF Act applies to certain legal services known as designated services. Depending on the circumstances, these may include legal work involving:

• The purchase, sale or transfer of real property;

• The purchase or sale of businesses or business assets;

• The creation, acquisition, restructuring or transfer of companies, trusts or other legal entities;

• The management of client money, securities or other assets;

• The establishment or operation of corporations, trusts, partnerships or similar structures;

• Mergers, acquisitions and corporate transactions; and

• Other transactions prescribed under the AML/CTF legislation.

Not all legal services are designated services. Your lawyer will advise if AML/CTF requirements apply to your matter.

What if you do not provide the requested information?

The law requires us to complete certain identity and client due diligence checks before providing designated services.
If we are unable to obtain the information required by law, we may be unable to commence work, continue acting, or complete a transaction on your behalf.

Our commitment to clients

We understand that providing additional information can sometimes be inconvenient and unfamiliar. We are committed to making the process as straightforward and secure as possible while meeting our legal obligations.
If you have any questions about our AML/CTF obligations or what may be required for your matter, please contact your McInnes Wilson relationship Principal.

For more information about Australia's AML/CTF regime, visit AUSTRAC.