AML Training for Tranche 2 Entities: Prepare Now for AUSTRAC Compliance in 2026

AML Training in January 2026: Why Tranche 2 Entities Must Act Now

It’s January 2026, and the countdown to Australia’s AML/CTF Tranche 2 reforms is well underway. With compliance obligations set to apply from the 1st of  July, now is the time for real estate agencies, accountants, lawyers, and other Tranche 2 entities to prioritise AML training. Early preparation will ensure your business is ready to meet AUSTRAC’s expectations and align with global standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Organising

Why AML Training Matters

AML training is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s the foundation of an effective compliance program. AUSTRAC mandates that personnel performing AML/CTF functions must understand:

  • Your obligations under the AML/CTF Act and Rules

  • How to identify and mitigate money laundering (ML), terrorism financing (TF), and proliferation financing (PF) risks

  • Procedures for customer due diligence (CDD), enhanced due diligence (EDD), and suspicious matter reporting (SMR)

Training ensures your team can implement your AML/CTF program effectively and protect your business from financial crime risks.

What AML Training Should Cover

AUSTRAC guidance emphasises that AML training must be tailored to roles and risk exposure. Your program should include:

  • AML/CTF obligations under Australian law

  • ML/TF and PF typologies based on FATF guidance

  • Indicators of suspicious activity and escalation procedures

  • How to conduct initial and ongoing CDD, including beneficial ownership checks

  • Enhanced CDD for high-risk customers, including source of funds and wealth verification

  • Reporting obligations for SMRs and threshold transactions

  • Record-keeping requirements and governance responsibilities

When to Deliver AML Training

  • Initial training: At onboarding for all relevant personnel

  • Ongoing training: Regular refreshers (every 6–12 months for compliance officers and customer-facing staff)

  • Event-driven updates: When laws change, new ML/TF risks emerge, or internal reviews identify gaps

AUSTRAC expects training to be updated promptly in response to regulatory changes and emerging risks.

How to Deliver AML Training

Training must be accessible and understandable, using methods such as:

  • Online courses and e-learning modules

  • In-person workshops for high-risk roles

  • On-the-job mentoring and supervision

  • Regular updates via newsletters or intranet

Outsourcing is permitted, but AUSTRAC stresses that training must remain specific to your business and ML/TF risk profile.

Monitoring and Record Keeping

You must monitor training effectiveness through assessments, audits, and feedback. Keep detailed records of:

  • Who completed training and when

  • Training content and delivery method

  • Assessment results and follow-up actions

Maintaining a training register helps demonstrate compliance to AUSTRAC.

Book Your AML Training Today – Build Confidence for Tranche 2 Compliance

The AML/CTF reforms coming into effect in 2026 will introduce significant obligations for Tranche 2 entities. Scheduling AML training now is the smartest first step because it gives your key personnel the knowledge and clarity they need to tackle compliance head-on.

Early training provides:

  • Clear Understanding of Reforms
    Your team will learn exactly what AUSTRAC expects under the AML/CTF Act and Rules, including customer due diligence (CDD), enhanced due diligence (EDD), suspicious matter reporting, and record-keeping.

  • Confidence to Implement Obligations
    By familiarising staff with money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation financing typologies—aligned with FATF guidance—they’ll feel equipped to identify risks and apply controls effectively.

  • A Strong Compliance Foundation
    Training first ensures your AML/CTF program is built on informed decisions, reducing the risk of errors and penalties later.

  • Proactive Risk Management
    Understanding ML/TF risks early means you can design policies and procedures that protect your business before the July deadline.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Book your AML training today and empower your team to approach Tranche 2 reforms with confidence and clarity.

Contact us directly via the Contact page on our website or schedule your free, no-obligation call with AML Advisers today to see how we can assist with your Tranche 2 preparations!

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Australia’s next transparency leap: a public beneficial ownership register — and what Tranche 2 entities should do about trusts now

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ISO 37301 & Tranche 2 AML Reforms: How to Build a Compliant AML/CTF Program (That Auditors Love)