The Government has introduced the Criminal Code Amendment (State Sponsors of Terrorism) Bill 2025 into the House of Representatives.

If passed, the Bill will amend the Commonwealth Criminal Code to allow the Commonwealth to list foreign state entities that have engaged in a state terrorist act, or otherwise supported or advocated
terrorist acts targeted at Australia.

The Bill would create a new legislative framework that would enable the Governor-General to list foreign state entities as state sponsors of terrorism on the advice of the Australian Federal Police Minister, with agreement from the Foreign Affairs Minister.

The Bill would also create new offences which would criminalise conduct engaged in by these entities, as well as conduct engaged in by persons who would seek to assist or support these activities.

Detecting the financing of terrorism is a key objective of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006.

Checking the new register will be an essential part of AML customer due diligence.

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Author: David Jacobson
Principal, Bright Corporate Law
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About David Jacobson
The information contained in this article is not legal advice. It is not to be relied upon as a full statement of the law. You should seek professional advice for your specific needs and circumstances before acting or relying on any of the content.