Gemini Shifts to Local Australia Entity to Streamline Transactions and Navigate Regulatory Evolution

Gemini has significantly advanced its expansion into Australia by establishing Gemini Intergalactic Australia, a local entity registered with AUSTRAC, the country's anti-money laundering regulator. This move enables the exchange to integrate with Australia's domestic payment systems, including the New Payments Platform (NPP) and PayID, allowing users to trade in Australian dollars (AUD) without relying on cross-border transfersGemini Australia Expansion^[1]. The registration marks a strategic shift from Gemini's previous global structure, which required Australian users to fund accounts via SWIFT transfers to U.S. banks-a process described as inefficient and cumbersomeGemini Australia Push^[2]. By aligning with local infrastructure, Gemini aims to streamline transactions, enhance liquidity, and improve user accessibility, positioning itself as a competitive player in the region.

The firm has appointed James Logan, former Country Manager for Luno in Australia, as Head of Australia to lead local strategy and partnershipsGemini Australia Push^[2]. Logan's background in expanding digital asset access at Bitget and Luno underscores Gemini's commitment to embedding itself within Australia's crypto ecosystem. This localized leadership, combined with the establishment of a Sydney-based team, reflects a long-term operational strategy to understand market nuances and foster community engagementGemini Australia Expansion^[1].

Gemini's expansion is also tied to its pursuit of an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL), which would enable the firm to offer advanced services such as crypto staking, crypto-backed lending, and derivatives trading for wholesale clientsGemini Australia Expansion^[1]. While the exchange has paused staking for Australian users during the transition to the new entityImportant Update – Transition to Gemini Intergalactic Australia^[4], it remains focused on aligning with regulatory requirements. The Australian government's draft legislation, which would bring crypto exchanges under the Corporations Act, has accelerated the need for compliance frameworksGemini Australia Push^[2]. Gemini's head of APAC, Saad Ahmed, emphasized the firm's readiness to adapt to evolving regulations, stating that its approach prioritizes "liquidity, regulatory rigor, and brand trust" over rapid market entryGemini Australia Push^[2].

Australia's crypto market, already one of the most active globally, has seen 22-25% of the population own digital assets, according to Gemini's 2025 Global State of Crypto reportGemini Australia Push^[2]. This adoption rate mirrors trends in the U.S. and highlights growing retail and institutional interest. The market's maturity is further evidenced by its competitive landscape, where Gemini's emphasis on security and compliance could differentiate it from less-regulated platforms. Ahmed noted that Australia's demand for innovative services, such as staking and crypto-linked cards, aligns with Gemini's product roadmap, though rollouts will be phased to match regulatory clarityGemini Australia Expansion^[1].

The regulatory environment in Australia is undergoing significant transformation. The Albanese government's proposed draft rules require crypto firms to obtain AFSLs, a move that could standardize industry practices but also raise compliance costsGemini Australia Push^[2]. Gemini's measured approach-observing industry-government dialogue before committing to full compliance-reflects a balance between regulatory preparedness and operational flexibility. Ahmed acknowledged that while there may be "back and forth" in shaping the final framework, Gemini remains confident in its ability to adaptGemini Expands in Australia^[3].

The transition of Australian user accounts to Gemini Intergalactic Australia, effective September 18, 2025, underscores the firm's commitment to localized operationsImportant Update – Transition to Gemini Intergalactic Australia^[4]. Users were required to convert non-AUD balances to AUD and unstake assets ahead of the shift, a process designed to ensure compliance with AUSTRAC's obligations. This transition also marks the discontinuation of staking services for Australian customers, a temporary measure as the firm navigates regulatory requirementsImportant Update – Transition to Gemini Intergalactic Australia^[4]. Despite these changes, Gemini's core offerings-such as secure custody and trading-remain unaffected, reinforcing its reputation as an institutional-grade platform.

Gemini's expansion into Australia signals a broader trend of global crypto firms aligning with regulatory frameworks to access mature markets. By prioritizing compliance and localized infrastructure, the firm is not only addressing Australia's demand for secure, regulated services but also setting a precedent for sustainable growth in the region. As the Australian crypto ecosystem evolves, exchanges that combine innovation with regulatory adherence, like Gemini, are likely to strengthen market legitimacy and attract mainstream adoptionGemini Australia Expansion^[1].