Why we may ask for identity and funding information.

A plain-English guide to the AML/CTF checks that may be part of your property matter.

Why do these checks happen?

The law aims to reduce the misuse of legal and property transactions for financial crime. Since 1 July 2026, it has covered specified professional services, including legal work that assists with planning or carrying out a property purchase, sale or transfer. Coverage depends on the service actually provided; it does not mean every conversation or every legal matter requires the same checks. See AUSTRAC’s guide to covered professional services.

What might we ask you for?

Depending on the matter, we may ask for your full name, address, date of birth and documents that help establish your identity. We may also ask who you are acting for, the purpose of the transaction and whether another person will provide money or benefit from it. If the client is a company or trust, information about the people behind it—such as directors, trustees or the people who ultimately own or control it—may be needed. The precise request depends on the client and the work. AUSTRAC explains why identification may be requested.

Why ask where the money came from?

For some matters, we may need to understand the source of funds: how the money for this transaction was obtained, rather than only the account it will leave. It might be savings from work, sale proceeds, a loan, a gift or an inheritance. Depending on the circumstances, we may ask for supporting information. A question about your wider source of wealth is a different question and will not be needed in every case. AUSTRAC explains these terms.

What will the steps look like?

Tell us early if a contract deadline is close. We first identify the people and transaction involved, then explain the information or documents required and an appropriate way to provide them. We review the information and may come back with a focused question. If relevant details change during the matter, please tell us promptly so we can keep the information current.

Hasn’t my bank or agent already checked me?

They may have. A bank’s or real estate agent’s check does not automatically satisfy a law firm’s own obligations. You may be asked for information again. In some circumstances the law permits reliance on another regulated business’s checks, but that depends on specific conditions and arrangements—not simply on a copy of an earlier ID check.

Will this hold up my matter?

Please send the requested information as soon as an appropriate channel has been arranged. Initial customer checks are generally completed before a covered service starts, subject to legal exceptions. If required information cannot be obtained or verified, some work may need to wait while we assess the next lawful step. We will explain what we can about timing and scope for your particular matter.

What about privacy and confidential legal advice?

We use information for the matter and applicable legal obligations. Some information may have to be kept or disclosed where the law requires. Legal professional privilege remains protected where it applies; privilege is a specific legal protection and is not the same as a promise that no information can ever be disclosed. Read our Privacy Policy and ask us if you have a concern before providing information.

A simple way to get started

You can send a brief enquiry about the property and approaching dates through Contact Us. Please do not put identity documents, bank statements, account numbers or passwords in the public enquiry form. Ask us how to provide any sensitive documents. If you have no standard identity documents, tell us so we can discuss what may be possible for your circumstances.