Search Stories by:

and/or

News

Starting 1 July 2026, jewellers and dealers in precious metals and stones will be required to comply with new anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) laws. | Source: AUSTRAC

New financial crime regulations: Here’s what jewellers need to know

Posted November 20, 2025 |

Starting 1 July 2026, jewellers and dealers in precious metals and stones will be required to comply with new anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) laws.

The new laws are designed to prevent criminals from exploiting legitimate businesses, such as those in the jewellery industry, to move and conceal illicit funds.

Criminal networks often target high-value sectors, such as fine jewellery, by making large cash or virtual asset payments. This allows them to launder their dirty money through the purchase of expensive items.

Businesses that buy or sell precious stones, metals, or related products will fall under these regulations if they accept or make payments of $AUD10,000 or more in cash or virtual assets in a single transaction.

What should you do?

The Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) is encouraging businesses to start preparing early to ensure they are ready when the new laws come into effect on 1 July 2026. To begin:

Check if you’re affected.
Visit AUSTRAC’s online Reforms Hub to learn about the new laws.
Learn more about the harm money laundering causes and the risks to your industry.
Watch the introductory webinar recordings for newly regulated businesses.
Read AUSTRAC’s newly released reforms guidance that steps you through your new obligations.
Subscribe to AUSTRAC’s reforms mailing list.

What’s coming next?

AUSTRAC will be rolling out additional resources to help you prepare, including fact sheets that provide further clarification on the guidance, available in November 2025.

Sector-specific guidance and starter program kits for jewellers will be released by the end of January 2026. These kits will include pre-made templates that small jewellery businesses can adapt to their operations, making it easier to comply with their obligations.

For more in-depth information and the latest resources you need to start preparing, visit AUSTRAC’s dedicated Reforms Hub.

By preparing early and understanding your obligations, you can implement effective AML/CTF measures to protect your business and customers from financial crime.

Together, we can stop crime where it hides.