Australia has taken a comprehensive regulatory step covering the cryptocurrency sector, enacting a new legal framework. The country passed the “2025 Companies Amendment Act (Digital Asset Framework),” bringing about its first comprehensive regulation of the digital asset market.
Under the new law, cryptocurrency exchanges and custody platforms are required to obtain a financial services license from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission within six months. This step aims to subject companies operating in the sector to stricter regulation and standards.
The regulation added two new categories to Australian law. The first is defined as digital asset platforms that hold users’ crypto assets, while the second is defined as tokenization-based custody platforms that store real-world assets and issue digital tokens in return.
Companies in both categories will be required to apply to and obtain a license from ASIC and comply with obligations similar to those of traditional financial institutions. These obligations include protecting customer assets, transparent information sharing, ethical conduct, and effective dispute resolution mechanisms.
Experts say the regulation aims to increase investor confidence and reduce uncertainties in the sector. Furthermore, this step is expected to contribute to making cryptocurrency markets more compatible with the traditional financial system.
*This is not investment advice.