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Five Simple Ways to Explain the AML Reforms to Your Clients


AML Sorted explains how to understand anti-money laundering compliance risk ratings, SDD, CDD and EDD easily

If you work in legal, conveyancing or real estate right now, you’ll be more than aware of AUSTRAC’s requirements for you. With Tranche 2 AML and CTF reforms on the way, we appreciate that your clients are asking more questions and your team is no doubt preparing for changes when onboarding and matter setup.


We know firms that communicate early and clearly are the ones who will see the smoothest transition. Our experience in UK AML has shown us this data time and time again. This is why we have prepared five practical tips to help you explain the reforms in a way that feels calm, confident and easy for clients to absorb. 


  • Simple Version

  • Avoid Jargon

  • Be Transparent

  • Internal Teal Communication

  • External Communication Channels


1. Start with the simple version

Most clients don’t need the technical breakdown of the reforms, just the basics. Set the context first, who the reforms apply to, what new checks will be required and why the changes are happening. If you need a refresher to share with your team, our explainer on Preparing Your Law Firm for AUSTRAC’s Tranche 2 Reforms is a good starting point.

A straightforward line such as “New national AML laws require all lawyers and conveyancers to verify their clients more thoroughly” is often enough.


 

2. Avoid jargon and keep language human

Acronyms like CDD or ECDD can make clients feel overwhelmed. Swap them for clear, outcome focused language.


For example, instead of saying “We need to conduct CDD”, try “We need to check your ID and understand the purpose of the matter before we can begin”.


If your team needs a refresher on risk concepts, you might link them to our guide, What Is the Risk-Based Approach to AML and How Do You Actually Assess It?.


3. Be open about what will change in your process

Clients appreciate clarity. Let them know what to expect before they begin a matter, such as:


• You may need to provide ID sooner than before 

• We may ask questions that feel new, including questions around how you have accumulated the money you are using in the matter 

• We cannot open your file until checks are complete 

• These checks apply to everyone, every time


If you want to streamline this step internally, our Free AML Data Collection Tool can help you gather the right information from clients at the start. You can access it here: 👉 https://www.amlsorted.com/resources/aml-data-collection-tool


4. Keep your team aligned with consistent messaging

Even the best processes fall apart if the wording is inconsistent. Spend time agreeing on scripts, templates and FAQs so everyone feels confident explaining the reforms.


If someone in your team is stepping into an AMLCO role and needs clarity on responsibilities, point them towards What Does AMLCO Even Mean for Law Firm Regulations?.


You can also explore our training options here: 👉 https://www.amlsorted.com/training


5. Use multiple channels so your message actually lands

Do not rely on one email or one sentence in an engagement letter. Share the same message in different formats, such as:


• A short reforms page on your website 

• A simple email for new matters 

• A short video explaining what clients need to provide 

• An in office poster for walk ins 

• Internal staff briefings


If you need help setting up structured client journeys or choosing the right tools, our overview of AML Sorted’s compliance solutions shows you the support options available.


Getting your communications ready now puts you ahead

Clients are far more accepting of change when they have time to understand it, and your team will thank you for preparing in advance. If you want help shaping your messaging, building internal guides or getting ready for the reforms step by step, we are here to support you.


And if you want to dig deeper into why the reforms matter, this case study on a 15 million dollar money laundering scheme is a perfect example of why AUSTRAC is lifting expectations.


Thanks for reading our blog and if you'd like to understand more about how AML Sorted can support you and your firm, why not drop us an email?







 
 
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