Many international businesses operating in Australia are finding that their existing service providers can no longer act as their ASIC Local Agent or Resident Director.
One reason is Australia's expanded Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) regime, which takes effect from 1 July 2026. Administered by AUSTRAC, the reforms introduce additional compliance obligations for professional service providers, including accountants, lawyers, conveyancers, real estate professionals, and trust and company service providers involved in company formation and corporate administration.
With expanded AML/CTF obligations, some providers are reassessing their risk appetite, compliance frameworks, and service offerings. As a result, overseas companies operating in Australia are increasingly being asked to find alternative ASIC Local Agents or Resident Directors at short notice.
At ABN Australia, we are seeing this trend firsthand and helping international businesses make a smooth transition in less than a week.
Fast appointment process
For many international businesses, timing is critical. Whether you operate through an Australian branch or a foreign-owned Australian subsidiary, delays in appointing the right representative can create compliance risks and disrupt business operations.
In most cases, our onboarding, Know Your Customer (KYC), due diligence, and appointment process can be completed within approximately two weeks, subject to the timely provision of all required information and documentation. This helps to minimise disruption and ensure continuity of your Australian operations.
ASIC Local Agent services for foreign branches
Foreign companies registered with ASIC and operating through an Australian branch are required to appoint an ASIC Local Agent. The Local Agent acts as the company's representative in Australia and shares responsibility for ensuring the foreign company complies with its obligations under the Corporations Act.
ABN Australia's ASIC Local Agent service provides international businesses with access to experienced compliance professionals who understand both Australian regulatory requirements and the practical realities of operating a cross-border business.
Resident Director services for foreign-owned Australian companies
If your business operates through an Australian proprietary limited company (Pty Ltd), Australian law generally requires at least one director who ordinarily resides in Australia. Finding a suitable Resident Director can be challenging, particularly for overseas businesses entering the Australian market for the first time or those needing to replace an existing provider urgently.
Our Resident Director service is delivered by experienced in-house compliance and accounting professionals who understand governance, corporate compliance, taxation, and the unique needs of international businesses. Beyond satisfying statutory requirements, our directors provide practical governance support to help businesses maintain compliance and operate with confidence.
Why international businesses choose ABN Australia
ABN Australia supports international businesses establishing and growing their presence in Australia, backed by over 50 years of combined team experience in corporate compliance, accounting, and international business services.
Our team works with clients from around the world across a broad range of industries, providing company establishment, ASIC Local Agent services, Resident Director services, accounting, taxation, payroll, and ongoing compliance support. What sets us apart is our ability to move quickly, our deep understanding of Australian compliance requirements, and our experience supporting international businesses through periods of regulatory change.
Planning a Transition?
If your current provider is no longer able to act as your ASIC Local Agent or Resident Director, now is the time to review your arrangements. With efficient onboarding, experienced in-house professionals, and a proven track record supporting international businesses, ABN Australia can help ensure a smooth transition and ongoing compliance with Australian regulatory requirements.
Contact our team to discuss your requirements and how quickly we can assist.
Last updated: 22nd June 2026
About the Author
Ro Elvinia is ABN Australia's Customer Success and Marketing Manager. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication, majoring in journalism, and also has an academic background in civil engineering. With over a decade of experience in professional writing and a background spanning journalism, Australian immigration, and business services, Ro brings a unique mix of communication and analytical expertise. She works closely with international clients and contributes to ABN Australia's content strategy, helping global businesses stay informed and confident as they navigate the Australian market.
Ro Elvinia
Customer Success and Marketing Manager