Privacy Policy
1. Introduction
AML Real Estate Solutions ("we", "us", "our") is committed to protecting the privacy of personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and disclose personal information, particularly in relation to our services provided under Australia's Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) legislation.
As a consulting service specializing in AML/CTF compliance for real estate professionals, we understand the importance of maintaining the highest standards of data privacy and security.
2. What Information We Collect
We collect personal information necessary to verify identity and comply with our legal obligations. This may include:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Residential address
- Contact details (email, phone)
- Identity document information (e.g. driver's licence, passport)
- Information relevant to AML/CTF risk assessments (e.g. customer type, business role)
We do not collect more information than necessary and only for legitimate business and compliance purposes.
3. How We Collect Information
We collect information directly from clients when:
- You engage our consulting services
- You submit identity documents for verification
- You contact us with inquiries or support requests
- You use our government-approved verification systems
We may collect information in person, via email, secure forms, or through our digital compliance tools.
4. Why We Collect It
We collect personal information to:
- Verify your identity under AUSTRAC's AML/CTF Act requirements
- Assess AML/CTF risks
- Maintain compliance records
- Assist in generating and submitting reports required by AUSTRAC
- Respond to client inquiries or legal obligations
- Provide consulting services related to AML/CTF compliance
All information is collected and used solely for Know Your Customer (KYC) purposes and to fulfill compliance obligations.
5. Where and How We Store Information
We store all personal information on secure, encrypted servers located exclusively within Australia. We implement strict access controls, multi-factor authentication, and data minimisation practices to protect information from unauthorised access, misuse, or disclosure.
Our security measures include:
- Role-based access controls
- Encryption of data at rest and in transit
- Regular security audits and penetration testing
- Staff training on data protection and privacy
- Physical security measures for our premises
We use government-approved verification systems for identity verification, ensuring all data is processed securely and in compliance with Australian privacy laws.
6. Disclosure of Personal Information
We do not sell, rent, or trade personal information. We may disclose personal data only in the following limited circumstances:
- To AUSTRAC, where required under law (e.g. Suspicious Matter Reports)
- To our professional advisers (e.g. legal, compliance), only where necessary and under strict confidentiality
- With your explicit consent, where required for specific compliance purposes
Any third-party service providers we engage are bound by strict confidentiality and data protection requirements, and all data remains stored in Australia.
7. Access and Correction
You may request access to or correction of your personal information by contacting us. We will respond within a reasonable timeframe and in accordance with the Privacy Act.
Contact: privacy@aml-realestate.com.au
If we refuse access or correction, we will provide written reasons and available complaint mechanisms.
8. Data Retention
As required by AUSTRAC, we retain identity verification records and AML/CTF-related information for 7 years from the date of last use or the end of the client relationship.
After this period, personal information is securely destroyed or de-identified in accordance with our data retention policy.
9. Complaints and Enquiries
If you believe we have breached the Privacy Act or mishandled your information, please contact us in writing at privacy@aml-realestate.com.au. We take all complaints seriously and will investigate them promptly.
If you are not satisfied with our response, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) at www.oaic.gov.au.
10. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in law or our services. The latest version will always be available on our website. We encourage you to periodically review this page to stay informed about our information practices.
Last updated: April 7, 2025