First AML

With the AML bill being passed yesterday by the senate, this is a very timely reminder that the transition to Tranche 2 reforms isn't just a checkbox exercise—it's a fundamental reshaping of risk management for Australian law firms. Highly recommend downloading the whitepaper for anyone serious about getting ahead of these reforms, rather than playing catch-up when enforcement begins. Remember that July 2026 is the finish line. The race starts today.

Great to see our cofounder Bion Behdin featured in the Financial Accountant by the The Institute of Financial Accountants, discussing the Starling Bank fine and its implications for small businesses. Bion's insights underscore the importance of futureproofing AML systems for fast-growing companies, particularly in highly regulated industries. Read the full article to learn more about how small businesses can stay ahead of AML challenges: https://lnkd.in/evXu3C7d

Last calls for our final Tranche 2 webinar for 2024! We'll be going beyond the basics with financial crime expert Luke Raven (LinkedIn Top Voice). We're pulling back the curtain on how criminals really exploit professional services – and how to stop them. What you'll discover: ? The psychology behind why criminals target professional firms ? Industry-specific red flags across legal, accounting & real estate ? Your action plan when suspicions arise ? Battle-tested protection strategies ? Eye-opening case studies you won't forget Secure your spot: https://lnkd.in/gTNTX-kK #AML #FinancialCrime #ProfessionalServices #Compliance #RiskManagement

We've worked with our partners, Actionstep and Amy Bell of Teal Compliance to create the ultimate summer reading for Australian law firms gearing up for Tranche 2 reforms! ?? With 2026 as the compliance finish line, 2025 is the year to get your AML frameworks in place. This guide is packed with practical advice and real-world examples to help you hit the ground running in the new year. #tranche2 #legaltech #aml

Eloise Butterworth from Lester Aldridge recently posted about how moved she was by the human impact of money laundering. As we said to her, if you want a broader eye-opening and heart-wrenching understanding of how dirty money fuels the human trafficking industry, check out the interview we did with Matthew Friedman from The Mekong Club. In his words, "MLROs and AMLCOs may not see the direct impact of what they are doing, but they're heroes." https://lnkd.in/gp7iQ67t

Fighting words from the UK's Foreign Secretary. Great to see issue of dirty money getting the airtime it deserves and getting pushed higher up the government's agenda.

It's a pivotal moment for Australia. After two decades of lagging behind global AML/CTF standards this long-overdue legislation will finally start to close the gaps that have made Australia a favourite choice of criminals and their dirty money. Bravo Australia, you're nearly there.

Do you think your AML programme could use a refresh in 2025? If your policies, controls and procedures are feeling a little dated or dusty, join us this Friday at 1pm GMT for a 45-minute webinar with compliance expert Amy Bell from Teal Compliance in conversation with our very own Bion Behdin. Discover how to structure an effective 5-week AML review process that will elevate your compliance efforts and prepare your firm for the year ahead. After the break, you can have your plan ready to go -- and start 2025 strong. We'll be covering common oversights that trip up MLROs and compliance teams, and simple ways you can tighten up your programme. We'll be covering: ?? firmwide risk assessments ?? onboarding clients ?? ongoing monitoring ?? how to test your PCPs, and ?? how to demonstrate your PCPs are running smoothly to auditors ?? Don’t miss out—register now to secure your spot! Link in the comments below.

Join Bion Behdin this Wednesday to hear about some very suspicious activities in the latest installment of the Compliance for Law Firms webinar series. Register your place by reaching out to Graham Wood or emailing him on [email protected]