Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) Australia
Location: Australia, Sydney
Experience: 5+ years
Function: Financial Crime Compliance
Role Overview
The Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) – Australia is responsible for the effective operation of the firm’s AML/CTF framework in Australia and will act as the registered AML Compliance Officer with AUSTRAC.
The role combines hands-on forensic financial crime investigations with senior regulatory oversight. The MLRO operates with appropriate independence, acts as the primary escalation point for financial crime risk, and provides clear, risk-based advice to the business while ensuring compliance with the AML/CTF Act and Rules and relevant AFSL obligations. The MLRO will operate as part of a global Financial Crime Compliance team and will be supported by experienced regional and group colleagues in complex assessments, escalation matters, and key decision-making.
The MLRO is accountable for AUSTRAC reporting, including Suspicious Matter Reports and other regulatory filings, and serves as the firm’s principal point of contact with AUSTRAC, auditors, and key financial partners.
A core aspect of the role is leading and conducting complex investigations into suspicious activity, high-risk customers, and typologies relevant to payments and, where applicable, digital assets. The MLRO owns escalation decisions, ensures investigations are well-documented and defensible, and determines when matters meet reporting thresholds.
The role also includes maintaining AML/CTF policies, procedures, and controls; supporting AML risk assessments; monitoring regulatory developments; and providing clear reporting to senior management and the Board. The MLRO advises product, operations, and onboarding teams on AML/CTF risk, supports regulatory registrations and licensing activity, and contributes AML expertise to new products and market expansion.
The MLRO promotes a strong culture of escalation, accountability, and compliance, including through training and ongoing engagement with the business.
Required Experience and Qualifications
5+ years’ experience in AML/CTF, financial crime, forensic investigations, or compliance within financial services, fintech, or payments
Prior experience as MLRO, Deputy MLRO, AML Compliance Officer, or in a senior AML or investigations role
Strong working knowledge of the Australian AML/CTF Act and Rules and AUSTRAC regulatory expectations
Hands-on experience with Suspicious Matter Reports, complex investigations, and regulator engagement
Experience supporting or operating within an AFSL environment or equivalent governance framework
Exposure to payments, remittance, or crypto-asset activity is advantageous
Background in Law, Finance, Business, or Compliance
CAMS, CGSS, or equivalent professional certification preferred
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including regulator-facing interactions