New identity requirements for property transactions

New identity requirements for property transactions

From 1 July 2026, Australian law requires us to verify the identity ofthe people and entities we act for. Here's what that means for you— and why it makes property transactions safer for everyone.

in effect from 1 July 2026  • Regulated by AUSTRAC

What's changed, in three points

Australia's AML/CTF laws have been expanded for the first time in 17 years. From 1 July 2026 they apply to real estate professionals — including buyer's agencies like Rethink Investing.

01

A new legal obligation

When an eligible client property settlement is finalised through Rethink Group, a contribution is automatically allocated to Rethink Legacy.

02

A simple ID
check

Before we begin working with you, we'll ask you to confirm your identity — much like the checks your bank or lawyer already carry out.

03

Quick and
secure

Most clients complete it in a fewminutes through a secure platform, and your information is handled in line with our Privacy Policy.

Whether you're buying or selling

The requirements apply to all parties in a property transaction we're involved in. What we'll need is broadly the same — here's how it looks for each.

IF YOU’RE BUYING

BUYING CLIENTS

We'll send your ID verification link alongside your onboarding and sign-up forms.

Tell us early how you intend to buy — as an individual, company, trust or SMSF — so we send the right forms.

If you buy through a company or trust, we'll also confirm the people who own or control it.

Checks must be complete before we can act for you.

IF YOU’RE SELLING

VENDORS & SELLERS

The same identity checks apply to vendors in transactions we're involved in.

We — or the selling agent — will let you know what's needed at around the point of contract.

For company or trust-owned property, we'll confirm ownership and control details.

Where checks have already been completed by another regulated party, we may be able to rely on them.

Frequently asked questions

What is AML/CTF
Why is Rethink Investing asking me for this information?
Who does this apply to?
What is Customer Due Diligence (CDD)?
What information might I need to provide?
How will my information be used and stored?
I've already done ID checks with my lawyer. Do I have to do them again?
What happens if I don't provide the information?
Is this unique to Rethink Investing?

A quick word of reassurance

These checks aren't about suspicion — they're a standard, universal requirement that protects the integrity of property transactions and everyone involved in them. We've designed our process to be quick, secure and respectful of your time. Ifanything is unclear, we're always happy to talk it through.

Regulatory note. This information is provided in accordance with the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006 (Cth) and associated rules, under the supervision of the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre(AUSTRAC). It is general information about our obligations and does not constitute legal advice.

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