Australia Moves Closer to Comprehensive Digital-Asset Regulation

The Australian government's push for a more comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets has taken a significant step forward.

After careful consideration, the Senate Economics Legislation Committee has endorsed the proposed Corporations Amendment (Digital Assets Framework) Bill 2025. The bill seeks to bring digital-asset platforms and custody services under the country's existing financial-services regime.

The framework defines key concepts such as 'digital tokens' and 'tokenized custody platforms,' aiming to regulate intermediaries dealing with customer assets rather than blockchain technology itself.

Under the proposed rules, operators would typically need an Australian Financial Services Licence and comply with asset-safeguarding standards. A six-month transition period is planned for providers that do not already hold a licence.