Australia to Enforce New Crypto Regulations in 2025

Australia has long been recognized as one of the most favorable regions for operating crypto-related activities, with a series of rules in place to ensure strict compliance with consumer protection and investors’ rights. The country has maintained a supportive stance towards innovation in blockchain technology and cryptocurrency. As of 2025, Australia is enhancing transparency to prohibit misleading or deceptive conduct in the crypto space.

The Australian government confirmed that 2025 is the year when previously discussed crypto regulatory reforms will become law. This marks a major regulatory shift, with new rules and licensing requirements coming into effect for the crypto sector. The Treasury outlined its crypto regulation plan, confirming that exchanges, custody services, and some brokerage firms will come under new laws. These entities must follow financial services rules, including obtaining an Australian Financial Services Licence and meeting minimum capital requirements. Payment stablecoins will also be regulated as stored-value facilities, with some exemptions.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers announced that draft legislation for the new crypto regulatory framework will be circulated for public comment by the third quarter of 2025. Final rules are expected to follow after this consultation period. New licensing requirements for Digital Asset Platforms (DAPs) were introduced and became effective. These changes are part of Australia’s move from passive oversight to proactive regulation, focusing on consumer safety and financial integrity.

In March 2025, Australia’s government announced plans for a new regulatory framework for cryptocurrency exchanges and platforms. The new rules introduced mandatory licensing, while small firms and software developers will be exempt from these obligations. The Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) is focusing on consumer protection, market integrity, and enforcement. The Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) is ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT).

Cryptocurrency is taxable in Australia, with the Australian Tax Office (ATO) classifying cryptocurrency coins, stablecoins, NFTs, and tokens as property and assets of capital gains tax (CGT). If an individual is selling, trading, spending, or gifting crypto, the capital gain is included in the income tax. This income tax rate depends on the total income during the tax year. If cryptocurrency is held for longer than a year, a 50% capital gains tax discount can be availed. The tax reporting deadline for the 2024-2025 financial year is October 31, 2025. The ATO can track crypto and impose severe penalties on tax evasion.

In 2025, approximately 32% of Australians own cryptocurrency, positioning the country among the top global crypto adopters. It also marks a significant increase from 28% in 2024. 95% of Australians are aware of at least one cryptocurrency, with 75% of investors holding Bitcoin. The revenue in the crypto market in Australia & Oceania is projected to reach US$1.2 billion by 2025. The current crypto revenue in the region is growing at a rate of 19.29% and will reach US$1.4 billion by 2026.

The Australian government is currently investigating the potential of central bank digital currency (CBDC) to integrate it into the country's financial framework. While AUSTRAC and ASIC are developing consumer protection measures, the government is actively working to establish a successful regulatory balance between innovation and stability.