If you’re buying or selling a property, you may notice something new. Your real estate agent may ask you to provide identification and some additional information.
For many clients, this can feel unexpected.
So, why is it happening? The short answer:
From 1 July 2026, new Australian laws require real estate agencies to verify the identity of their clients before providing certain services.
In simple terms:
- Your agent now needs to confirm who they are working with.
- This is a legal requirement and applies across the entire industry.
Why This is Happening
Property transactions involve large amounts of money.
Because of this, they can sometimes be used for financial crime, such as hiding or moving illegal funds.
These new laws are designed to:
- Reduce fraud and illegal activity
- Improve transparency in property transactions
- Protect buyers, sellers, and the broader market
The goal is not to make transactions harder it’s to make them safer.
Is this just me? No.
These checks apply to every client, whether you’re:
- Buying or selling for the first time
- A long-term client
- Purchasing through a company or trust
This is not about suspicion, it’s simply a standard part of the process now required by law.
What You Might Be Asked For
In most cases, the process is simple.
Your agent may ask for:
- Photo ID (such as a driver’s licence or passport)
- Basic personal details
- Proof of address (in some cases)
Depending on the situation, you may also be asked:
- Questions about the transaction
- Where funds are coming from
- Details about ownership if using a company or trust
When This Happens
One of the biggest changes is timing.
You may be asked for this information:
- Earlier than before
- Sometimes at the start of the process, not just at settlement
This helps:
- Avoid delays later
- Keep the transaction running smoothly
Why Multiple People May Ask for The Same Information
You might notice that your:
- Bank
- Conveyancer
- Real estate agent
all ask for similar information.
This can feel repetitive, but each party has their own legal obligations to complete these checks.
Over time, this will become a normal part of the process.
Will This Slow Things Down?
In most cases, no.
These checks are usually quick once documents are provided.
Delays typically only happen when:
- Information is missing
- Documents aren’t provided early
- The transaction structure is more complex
The simplest way to avoid delays is to provide what’s requested as early as possible.
What Happens if You Don’t Provide The Information
Under the new laws, real estate agencies must complete these checks before they can proceed. If the required information can’t be obtained, the transaction may not be able to move forward. This applies across the entire real estate industry.
Your Privacy
We take privacy and data security seriously. We will only collect what is required by law or you have authorised us to collect. Your data is stored securely and handled in accordance with Australian privacy laws and strict AML/CTF regulatory requirements. It is used only for identity verification and compliance checks.
The Bottom Line
This is a new step in the process, but it won’t feel new for long.
Just like identity checks with banks, these requirements will quickly become standard when buying and selling property.
We’re Here to Help
If you have any questions, your Elders agent will guide you through what’s needed and why.
Our focus is to keep the process simple, clear, and moving forward.
*source: https://amlaustralia.com/ I https://www.austrac.gov.au/