What AML training is legally required for my staff under Australian law?

AUSTRAC's AML/CTF Rules require reporting entities to maintain an ongoing training program for employees. Training is not a one-off induction — it is a continuing obligation, and untrained or under-trained staff is one of the most common findings in AUSTRAC compliance reviews.

Who needs training?

Training must be provided to all relevant employees — meaning anyone who is involved in providing designated services, handling client interactions, processing transactions, or who could otherwise encounter ML/TF indicators in their role. This includes:

• Partners, directors, and senior management
• Client-facing accountants and advisers
• Reception and administrative staff who handle client documents
• New employees, before they begin client-related duties

What must training cover?

At minimum, training must address:

• The nature of money laundering and terrorism financing, and why it matters
• Your firm's AML/CTF obligations under Australian law
• Your firm's specific AML/CTF program — including Part A and Part B procedures
• How to identify red flags and suspicious behaviour
• The internal process for escalating concerns and filing SMRs
• The tipping-off prohibition and confidentiality of SMR information

How often must training be provided?

AUSTRAC does not prescribe a specific frequency, but annual training is the standard expectation. Training should also be triggered by:

• A new employee commencing employment
• A material change to your AML/CTF program
• A significant change to the regulatory environment
• An incident or near-miss within your firm

Record-keeping for training

You must maintain records of who received training, what the training covered, and when it was completed. These records must be retained for at least seven years. AUSTRAC inspectors will request training records as a standard part of any review.