Australia: White Collar Crime, Anti-Corruption & Fraud

Financial crime prevention is shifting from compliance-focused frameworks to outcomes-driven regulation that prioritizes measurable harm reduction. Organizations must now demonstrate how their controls disrupt criminal networks and protect victims, not just meet reporting obligations.

You receive an urgent email from the CEO requesting a payment be processed before the end of the day. The email looks genuine, the writing style appears familiar, the address is correct and relevant supporting documentation is attached.

AUSTRAC's section 167 notices represent a powerful investigative tool that can compel Tranche 2 entities to prove their AML/CTF compliance through documentary evidence. While much attention has focused on implementing compliance frameworks, the real test comes when organisations must substantiate their efforts under regulatory scrutiny. Can your business prove what it claims to have done?

Australian CTP Scheme administrators are seeking stricter punishments for fraudulent and misleading conduct, with a recent NSW prosecution resulting in a 16-month prison sentence. The decision highlights a broader shift towards stronger enforcement and a clear deterrent for fraudulent claimants.

Australia's anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regime is expanding to include lawyers, accountants and other professional service providers from July 2026. Piper Alderman is implementing comprehensive compliance systems to meet these new obligations, which will affect client onboarding, transaction monitoring and matter management processes across the firm.

The Australian trucking industry faces a perfect storm of structural challenges including driver shortages, environmental obligations, and sham contracting arrangements. Recent insolvency appointments reveal disturbing patterns of inflated vehicle acquisitions, missing assets, and potential phoenix activity that are creating substantial losses for lenders and creditors across the sector.

Our Brisbane criminal lawyers represent people charged with offences under Queensland and Commonwealth law including serious charges.

If you are facing serious criminal charges in Qld, most people start by searching for the best criminal defence lawyer in Brisbane.

It has never been more important for organisations to invest in technology to combat against cyber-crime and fraud.