Before We Work Together: Transparency from the very beginning.

Building trusted relationships starts with understanding who we're working with. Here's what you can expect before we begin providing certain services.

Supporting a Safe and Trusted Business Environment

At Lincolns, trust has been at the heart of our business for more than 70 years.

As part of our commitment to protecting our clients, our people and the broader community, we comply with Australia's Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) legislation.

From 1 July 2026, these regulations apply to accounting firms providing certain designated services.

While these requirements introduce some additional steps before we can commence specific engagements, our approach is simple: we'll make the process as straightforward, transparent, and efficient as possible.

What Does This Mean For You?

For most clients, very little will change. Before we can provide certain services, we may need to:

Verify your

identity

Confirm your Business Ownership Structure

Understand who controls or benefits from the business

Ask a few questions about the purpose of the engagement

These checks are required under Australian law and help us meet our regulatory obligations.

What Does This Mean For You?

The Australian Government has expanded AML/CTF legislation to help reduce financial crime and strengthen the integrity of Australia's financial system.

Professional service providers, including accounting firms, now play an important role in helping to:

  • Verify who they are acting for

  • Better understand business ownership and control

  • Identify and manage potential risks

  • Help prevent the misuse of legitimate businesses

These requirements are designed to protect everyone involved.

How We'll Work With You

We understand that additional documentation can feel inconvenient. That's why we'll always aim to make the process as smooth as possible.

Our team will

  • Explain exactly what information is required

  • Tell you why we need it

  • Collect only what's necessary

  • Keep you informed throughout the process

Your Privacy Matters

Any personal or business information collected for AML/CTF purposes is handled in accordance with applicable privacy legislation and our Privacy Policy.

We only collect information necessary to meet our legal obligations and maintain strict confidentiality throughout the process.

VIEW OUR PRIVACY POLICY

Compliance & Onboarding Fees

Some new engagements may require additional verification and compliance procedures.

Where applicable, an onboarding fee may apply to cover the administration associated with these requirements.

We'll always discuss any fees with you before work begins, so there are no surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Australian law requires accounting firms to verify the identity of clients before providing certain designated services.

  • Depending on your circumstances, we may ask for identification, company or trust documentation, or information about business ownership.

  • Yes. Any information we collect is handled in accordance with Australian privacy legislation and our Privacy Policy.

  • In most cases, no. Providing the requested information early helps us complete the process quickly so we can begin working with you sooner.

  • Not always. Existing clients generally won't need to provide new information unless circumstances change or additional verification is required by law.

Questions?

Our team is here to make the process as straightforward as possible.

If you have any questions about our onboarding or verification requirements, we'd be happy to help.

CONTACT OUR TEAM