By -

From 1 July 2026, helping to combat money laundering and terrorism financing will become a legislated responsibility for legal practices that provide a designated service.

While AUSTRAC’s AML/CTF Starter Kits provide an important framework for compliance, we recognise that implementation of the Starter Kits, particularly for sole practitioners and small practices, can be challenging.

Implementation Guide: for sole practitioners and small practices

The Law Society of NSW AML/CTF Implementation Guide: for sole practitioners and small practices is designed to complement AUSTRAC’s Starter Kits. It helps legal practices move from theory to implementation by providing:

  • Practical, sector‑specific guidance, produced by lawyers, for lawyers
  • Tips, templates and examples to save time
  • Where relevant, guidance on navigating AML/CTF compliance alongside obligations arising under the Privacy Act and the Legal Profession Uniform Law
  • Guidance on operating and maintaining an AML/CTF program over time.

What is included in the Implementation Guide

The Guide follows the structure of AUSTRAC’s “Getting started” materials, and is divided into three parts:

  • Part 1: Customise your Starter Kit: provides information to help determine whether your practice comes within the scope of the regime, and if so, how to prepare for AML/CTF compliance
  • Part 2: How to implement the Starter Kit and use your program: including how to carry out personnel and customer due diligence
  • Part 3: Maintain your program: addresses how to evolve your AML/CTF program aligned to risks, operations and regulatory changes.

In coming weeks, the Law Society will publish further guidance to help medium and large practices learn from and adapt the AUSTRAC Starter Kits in implementing their own AML/CTF program.

Ongoing support

This Guide is intended to assist practices in preparing for compliance by 1 July 2026, and is a continuation of our ongoing program of support. The Law Society of NSW will continue to update guidance and provide further resources on its AML/CTF Hub.

Practitioners seeking guidance on AML/CTF are encouraged to contact the NSW Law Society’s Professional Support Unit on (02) 9926 0249 or email amlctf@lawsociety.com.au

Access the Guide here