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New identity requirements for property transactions
New rules! Stronger protection for property transactions.
From 1 July 2026, buyer's agents like us are required by law to carry out enhanced identity verification - think of it as the property industry aligining with what banks have had to do for years.
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
What is AML/CTF
From 1 July 2026, Rethink Investing became a reporting entity under Australia's AML/CTF (Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing) laws. This means we are governed by AUSTRAC and legally required to undertake enhanced measures to verify the identity of our clients and the structures they purchase through.
02
Enhanced verification - knowing who we're acting for
Before we can act on your behalf and throughout the transaction, we need to verify your identity - and where you're purchasing through a company, trust, or SMSF, we'll need to understand the structure behind it. It is a similar enhanced verification process your bank already carries out.
03
This applies to all buyer's agencies carrying out similar property transactions.
This isn't a Rethink Investing policy - it's a legal requirement across the entire property industry. Buyer's agencies like ours in Australia must now carry out these checks, regardless of who you purchase through.
Whether you're buying or selling
The requirements apply to all parties in a property transaction we’re invloved in. What we’ll need is broadly the same but at different points – here’s how it looks for each
IF YOU’RE BUYING
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 also confirm the people who own or control it.
Checks must be complete before we can act for you.
IF YOU’RE SELLING
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.
Frequently asked questions
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.
This information is general in nature and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We recommend seeking independent advice if you have any questions about your obligations.
