The Willwise approach to AML & KYC
Our obligations
From 1 July 2026, new federal laws will require Willwise to comply with Australia’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws(AML/CTF). As a result, we must complete several steps before we can commence providing certain legal services.
Under these laws, we will:
- verify the identity of our clients
- understand the purpose of each matter or transaction
- assess and document risks
- keep clear and accurate records of our decisions
In short, we must complete these required verification checks before we begin working with you.
Why these checks matter
Money laundering is a significant issue in Australia. Criminal groups often use legitimate businesses to disguise illegal funds, and those funds fuel:
- drug trafficking
- human exploitation
- terrorism
- large-scale financial fraud
These legal requirements are designed to prevent criminal networks from using professional services to move or hide illicit money.
Every identity check and risk assessment plays a role in protecting our clients, our profession and our community.
The AML process
What to expect
Our client identity verification process is designed to be clear, efficient and secure. In most cases, clients complete it quickly.
We aim to make this process as straightforward as possible and will only request information that is reasonably required for the service being 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 needed, we may request further documents or clarification, and we will let you know promptly.
Complete the assessment – We review the matter, assess risk and finalise the required verification checks.
Begin working with you – Once checks are complete, we proceed with your matter.
This process supports compliance with legal requirements and keeps clients and helps protect our clients and the broader community.
Our commitment to responsible data handling
We take privacy and data security seriously. To support this, any information you provide is handled in accordance with:
- Australian privacy laws
- our professional confidentiality obligations
- applicable legal requirements
Your data is used only for identity verification, compliance checks and onboarding purposes. We do not share information for marketing, and we never sell or trade client data.
In addition, all documents and personal details are stored securely, accessed only by authorised staff, and protected through encrypted systems and controlled processes.
If you have any concerns or questions about how Willwise meets its legal obligations in this area, please contact us.