Why AML Training is Essential for Staff in Pubs and Clubs

Why AML Training is Essential for Staff in Pubs and Clubs

Australia’s pubs and clubs are more than just places for socialising – when they provide certain financial services, such as operating gaming machines or facilitating electronic funds transfers, they’re also considered reporting entities under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) Act 2006. This means they have serious obligations to detect and prevent financial crime. 

Lively bar scene with patrons seated and standing around a well-stocked counter, bartenders serving drinks, and dim lighting creating a warm ambiance—used to illustrate AML training context for hospitality venues.

Staff Are the First Line of Defence 

According to AUSTRAC, Australia’s financial intelligence agency, a key component of meeting AML/CTF obligations is ensuring that staff are trained to recognise and respond to suspicious activity. In its guidance, AUSTRAC emphasises that “staff awareness and training is crucial to an effective AML/CTF program.” It helps frontline employees understand red flags — such as unusually large cash transactions, attempts to structure transactions under reporting thresholds, or customers reluctant to provide identification. 

Train your Staff 

Without proper training, staff may miss warning signs or fail to comply with required procedures, such as reporting suspicious matters or conducting customer due diligence. This not only exposes the venue to regulatory risk but also opens the door to criminal misuse of gaming services. 

Tailored AML/CTF Training for Pubs and Clubs 

An effective AML/CTF training program should be tailored to the specific services offered, regularly updated, and include practical examples relevant to the gaming and hospitality environment. By investing in robust training, pubs and clubs can protect their reputation, support Australia’s broader anti-crime efforts, and remain compliant with AUSTRAC’s regulatory expectations. GRC Solutions’ new AML/CTF course for Pubs & Clubs will be available in September 2025. 

GRC Solutions offers a suite of AML/CTF eLearning courses designed for sector-specific needs: 

Our courses are regularly updated to reflect legal changes and industry best practice and delivered via the award-winning Salt Compliance Learning Management System. 

Start Preparing Now 

Ultimately, AML training isn’t just about compliance — it’s about accountability and contributing to a safer, more transparent financial system. 

Contact us to discuss vital tailored eLearning for your team.