As you will be aware, the new Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) regulatory regime will commence in July next year, bringing in a range of compliance requirements for practices providing ‘designated services’.

It is important that principals, and those planning on becoming principals, of relevant law practices understand the implications for their practice, how to best manage AML/CTF risks, and how to prepare to meet their compliance and reporting requirements.

To support the profession, I am pleased to advise that the Law Society of NSW has introduced a new core subject, Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing Requirements, into our Practice Management Course (PMC).

This initiative supports two of my President’s Priorities for 2025, ‘delivering quality support for solicitors’ success’, no matter what their career stage, and ‘helping practices navigate new regulatory hurdles’, such as AML/CTF.

If you are considering opening your own practice or stepping into a principal role, I encourage you to register for one of our upcoming PMC courses and get an early understanding of AML/CTF requirements from a principal’s perspective.

Strengthening the profession in Sydney’s West: A new CPD experience

For the first time, the Law Society of NSW is gathering solicitors from three of Greater Western Sydney’s Regional Law Societies for a landmark event that combines a full day CPD conference in the suburbs with an opportunity to connect and strengthen professional networks.

CPD for Legal Professionals is a collaboration between the Law Society of NSW, and the Bankstown & District, Inner West, and Liverpool & Fairfield Districts Regional Law Societies. This joint initiative reflects our shared commitment to supporting solicitors across Western Sydney through a program that is both practical and engaging.

The event will be held on Tuesday, 28 October 2025, at the William Inglis Hotel, Warwick Farm, and is tailored to the professional needs of practitioners in these vibrant communities.

The program offers six CPD units, with sessions covering ethics, risk management, succession planning, and anti-money laundering. The day concludes with a networking reception and dinner providing the perfect opportunity to connect with colleagues across the region.

Registrations close at 5:00pm on Friday, 10 October, and places are limited, so I encourage you to register promptly.

I look forward to welcoming you to this important and memorable event.

Jennifer Ball, President, The Law Society of NSW