Steps we MUST take before you can sign contracts
Prove who you are
We verify your identity electronically using government databases — usually via your phone. You may need to provide more documents than in a previous purchase.
Tell us where the money comes from
We’ll ask about the source of your funds — savings, sale of another property, inheritance, family gift, etc. This is asked of everyone, without exception.
Companies & trusts
Buying through a company, trust, or SMSF? We need to identify the real people behind it — usually anyone who owns or controls 25% or more.
Background checks
We run automated checks against government watch lists. It’s quick, electronic, and done on every client without exception.
Checks continue throughout
Our obligations don’t stop after onboarding. We may ask follow-up questions if something changes during your matter. This is completely normal.
What happens if we can’t complete the checks
If we can’t verify who you are, or our risk assessment turns up issues, we may have to decline to act or stop acting partway through. Again, we may not be able to tell you exactly why. If this happens, any work we’ve already done will still be billable under our Cost Agreement.
Your privacy matters to us
We know some of what we’re asking for is personal. Here’s how we protect it:
- We only ask because the law requires us to. We’re not collecting more than we need.
- Your information is handled under the Privacy Act 1988 and our Privacy Policy (available on request)
- It’s stored securely and only shared where the law allows or requires (such as with AUSTRAC)
- We must keep these records for at least 7 years after your matter ends, then they’re securely destroyed
If you have any questions about the new laws, please feel free to contact us. We’ll be more than happy to answer them for you.
