October 29, 2025 | 03:19Australia’s financial regulator has significantly updated its digital asset guidance, clarifying how existing financial services laws apply to cryptocurrencies and tokenized products. The revised framework introduces new custodial standards and expands classification examples while confirming that Australian law applies to offshore platforms serving local users.
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Australian Crypto Trust Falls Despite Regulatory Push
Australian crypto adoption remains stagnant despite the government’s ambitious regulatory reforms, with distrust in digital assets rising to 60%. The fifth annual Australian Crypto Survey reveals ownership has flatlined while regulatory uncertainty continues to deter new investors. Younger Australians and parents are driving what growth exists in the market.
read moreAustralia Grants AUSTRAC Power to Ban Crypto ATMs
Australia is moving to grant its financial intelligence agency AUSTRAC the authority to restrict or ban cryptocurrency ATMs under new draft legislation. The proposed laws, announced by Cybersecurity Minister Tony Burke, aim to address money laundering risks that authorities have struggled to police through traditional enforcement methods. While the government isn’t seeking an outright ban, the legislation would classify crypto ATMs as ‘high-risk products’ and provide AUSTRAC with targeted powers to regulate them.
read moreAustralia Targets Crypto ATMs in New Anti-Money Laundering Crackdown
Australia is launching a major regulatory assault on cryptocurrency ATMs, with Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke declaring the machines a “high-risk product” after revealing that 85% of transactions by top users are linked to scams or money mules. The government will introduce legislation granting financial intelligence agency AUSTRAC sweeping powers to restrict or prohibit crypto ATMs, marking the culmination of months of regulatory pressure on an industry authorities say has grown unchecked while facilitating serious financial crimes.
read moreGemini Expands Crypto Services in Australia
US cryptocurrency exchange Gemini is establishing a formal Australian presence with a locally registered entity approved by the country’s financial intelligence agency AUSTRAC. This strategic expansion enables direct access to local payment systems and positions the exchange to capitalize on Australia’s substantial crypto adoption rate of 23-25%, representing significant growth potential amid ongoing regulatory consultations that could reshape the digital asset landscape.
read moreGemini Expands in Australia with AUD Trading & AUSTRAC Registration
Gemini has officially registered with Australia’s anti-money laundering watchdog AUSTRAC, enabling direct AUD trading through local banking integrations and marking a significant expansion in one of the world’s most active crypto markets. The strategic move comes as Australia prepares to bring crypto exchanges under the Corporations Act through new legislation, with Gemini positioning itself as a regulated, trustworthy alternative in the competitive landscape. The exchange has appointed former Luno executive James Logan as Head of Australia to lead local strategy and partnerships while pursuing further regulatory approvals.
read moreSwyftx Review: Australia’s Low-Fee Crypto Exchange
Since its operational launch in 2019, Swyftx has rapidly established itself as a dominant force in Australia’s cryptocurrency exchange landscape. Founded by Alex Harper and Angus Goldman, the Brisbane-based platform has distinguished itself through competitive fee structures, Australian dollar-denominated trading, and robust regulatory compliance. Catering to both novice and experienced traders, Swyftx combines user-friendly design with comprehensive features, positioning it as a top choice for digital asset investment down under.
read moreBitcoin-Backed Home Loans Launch in Australia
A Sydney-based fintech startup, Block Earner, is now offering Bitcoin-backed home loans in Australia after winning a legal battle that exempts it from needing a financial services license. Borrowers can secure up to 80% of a property’s value using BTC as collateral, with flexible repayment options in AUD or Bitcoin. However, stringent conditions apply, including potential forced liquidation if BTC’s value drops significantly. The product has already attracted over A$110 million in loan requests, despite high interest rates (9.5%-12%). Meanwhile, Australia is tightening crypto regulations, balancing innovation with security concerns. A recent study shows 32.5% of Australians own crypto, with 42.9% believing in its future widespread acceptance.
read moreAustralia Targets Crypto in Major AML Overhaul
Australia’s financial intelligence agency, AUSTRAC, has declared cryptocurrencies a major money laundering risk, announcing the country’s most significant AML regulatory expansion in decades. Starting July 2026, 80,000 additional businesses including real estate agents, lawyers, and precious metal dealers will fall under AML laws. The shift moves from compliance checks to targeting substantive risks, with digital currency exchanges and virtual asset service providers facing heightened scrutiny due to their cross-border capabilities. While industry leaders welcome regulatory clarity, concerns persist about implementation timelines and banking access for crypto firms. The move coincides with Australia’s growing digital asset sector, including a CBDC pilot program and new government appointments focused on digital economy regulation.
read moreTasmania Cracks Down on Crypto ATM Scams
Tasmania Police revealed that the top 15 users of crypto ATMs in the state were all scam victims, collectively losing AU$2.5 million ($1.6 million), with over a third deposited via crypto ATMs. The findings come amid a nationwide crackdown led by the Australian Federal Police and AUSTRAC to curb criminal exploitation of crypto ATMs. Authorities urge vigilance as scammers increasingly bypass traditional banking safeguards by directing victims to crypto kiosks.
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