Most of what’s required is information you already have, and in many cases, we may already have it on file.

If there’s one thing that helps make this process as smooth as possible, it’s having the right documents available when the time comes.

The good news is that most of what’s needed already exists. In many cases, we may already hold key documents such as trust deeds, company records, or ASIC extracts. Where that’s the case, we’ll use what we have and only come to you for anything that’s missing or needs updating.

Here’s a simple guide to what’s typically required, depending on your situation.

What Everyone Needs

• Current photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) for key individuals
• Date of birth and residential address
• Up-to-date contact details (legal name, trading name, phone, email, postal address)
• Tax File Number and ABN or ACN, where relevant
• A brief explanation of the purpose of the engagement

If You Operate Through a Company

• Recent ASIC company extract showing directors, shareholders, and structure
• Details of anyone who owns or controls 25% or more of the entity
• Group structure information, if there are related or holding entities
• Photo ID for directors and key owners

In many cases, we may already have your ASIC extract or company details on file. We’ll review what’s available and let you know if anything needs updating.

If You Operate Through a Trust or SMSF

• Trust deed and any amendments
• Details of trustees, appointor/principal, and beneficiaries
• Settlor details, where relevant
• For SMSFs, ATO registration and member details
• Photo ID for trustees and key individuals
• If there is a corporate trustee, the company details as above

We often hold trust deeds and related records on file. Where we do, we’ll use what we have and only request anything additional if needed.

If You’re a Sole Trader or in a Partnership

• Business name registration details and ABN
• Partnership agreement, if applicable
• Names, dates of birth, and addresses of all partners
• Photo ID for each partner or sole trader

What We May Also Ask For

Depending on the situation, we may ask a few additional questions or request further information, such as:

• Where funds for a transaction are coming from
• A general overview of how assets have been built over time
• The purpose of a transaction or structure
• Whether you or a close associate holds a public position
• Any overseas connections, such as operations or bank accounts

These are standard questions required under the legislation and apply across all accounting firms.

What This Means for You

You don’t need to gather everything right now.

These requirements only apply when you request a service that falls under the AML rules. When that happens, we’ll let you know exactly what’s needed.

In many cases, we may already have a large portion of the information on file. We’ll start there and only ask for anything additional if required.

The most helpful thing you can do now is make sure your photo ID is current, and your contact details are up to date.

We’ll Guide You Through It

We know this might look like a long list, but we’ll make the process as simple and manageable as possible.

When the time comes, we’ll provide a clear checklist, explain exactly what’s needed, and work through it with you step by step.

You won’t be expected to figure this out on your own.