ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING & KNOW YOUR CLIENT

Ward Keller’s approach to AML & KYC

Our commitment to compliance, privacy and community protection.

OUR OBLIGATIONS

What the law requires

From 1 July 2026, new federal laws will require our firm, along with many other professional service providers, to comply with Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) rules.

Under these laws, all regulated businesses must:

  • Verify the identity of their clients
  • Understand the purpose of each matter or transaction
  • Assess and document risks
  • Keep clear, accurate records of decisions
We are legally required to complete these checks before we can provide services.

WHY THESE CHECKS MATTER

Protecting our clients and community

Money laundering is a significant issue in Australia. Criminals use legitimate businesses to disguise billions of dollars in illegal funds each year. These funds fuel:

– Drug trafficking

– Terrorism

– Human exploitation

– Large-scale financial fraud

Strong AML controls help stop criminal networks from using professional services to move or hide illicit money.

Every identity check and risk assessment contributes to protecting our clients, our industry and our community.

THE AML PROCESS

What to expect

Our process is designed to be clear, efficient and secure. Most clients complete it quickly once documents are provided.

How it works

  • Share your details
    We request basic identity information and any relevant documents.
  • Verify your information
    Identity and ownership details are checked securely through approved systems.
  • Clarify anything missing
    If further documents or explanations are needed, we’ll let you know immediately.
  • Complete the assessment
    We review the matter, assess risk and finalise the required AML checks.
  • Begin working with you
    Once checks are complete, we proceed with your matter.
This process is mandatory under AML/CTF regulations and ensures we meet our legal obligations while keeping clients and communities safe.

OUR COMMITMENT TO RESPONSIBLE DATA HANDLING

Privacy and data security

We take privacy and data security seriously. Any information you provide is handled in accordance with:

GOVERNING FRAMEWORKS

Australian privacy laws

Our professional confidentiality obligations

Strict AML/CTF regulatory requirements

Your data is used only for identity verification, compliance checks and onboarding purposes.

We do not share information for marketing, and we do not sell or trade client data.

All documents and personal details are stored securely, accessed only by authorised staff, and protected through encrypted systems and controlled processes.

QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS?

Get in touch

If you have any questions or concerns about our AML/CTF process, please do not hesitate to contact us.

T (08) 8946 2999
E AMLteam@wardkeller.com.au