Why Your Lawyer May Ask for More Information from 1 July 2026
Why your lawyer may ask for more information from 1 July 2026
From 1 July 2026, law firms across Australia will have new obligations under anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws.
For some clients, this will mean being asked for more information at the start of a matter, or during a matter if circumstances change.
We appreciate that this may feel like “one more thing” at a time when you are already dealing with legal issues, family responsibilities, grief, stress or important financial decisions. Our job is to make the process clear and manageable.
What is changing?
The new laws require law firms to complete additional checks when providing certain types of legal services.
These checks are intended to reduce the risk of legal services being misused to move money, hide ownership of assets or disguise the source of funds.
This does not mean we think anything is wrong if we ask you for information. It simply means we have legal obligations to meet.
What might we ask for?
Depending on your matter, we may ask for:
• documents confirming your identity
• information about a company, trust or other entity
• details of the people who own, control or benefit from an entity
• information about where funds or assets are coming from
• updated information if something changes during your matter
We will explain what is needed and why.
Wills and estates matters
Because Varga Lawyers works extensively in wills and estates, we know these issues can arise at sensitive times.
In many straightforward will, probate or estate advice matters, the new requirements may not apply in the same way.
They are more likely to become relevant where a matter involves property, trusts, companies, funds, asset transfers or complex structures.
For example, additional checks may be required in some matters involving:
• transferring real estate
• selling estate property
• transferring property between family members
• companies or trusts
• movement of significant funds
• restructuring ownership or control of assets
Every matter is different. We will tell you what applies to your matter.
Existing clients
Existing clients may still be asked for additional or updated information.
This may happen if we open a new matter for you, if your current matter changes, or if the information we already hold is no longer sufficient for the work we are required to do.
Protecting your information
We understand that the information requested may be personal.
Any information you provide will be handled carefully and in accordance with our confidentiality obligations, privacy requirements and internal security processes.
Will this delay my matter?
In some cases, we may not be able to start or continue work until the required information has been provided and verified.
To avoid delays, please provide requested information as early as possible. If you are unsure what is needed, please ask us.
Our approach
At Varga Lawyers, we are committed to giving clear, practical advice and supporting our clients through legal processes with care.
If these new requirements apply to your matter, we will guide you through them in plain English.
This article is general information only and is not legal advice. Please contact us for advice about your specific circumstances.
Written by Vanessa Varga