What's the cheapest compliant approach?
AML/CTF compliance cost varies enormously depending on the path you take — from effectively free (self-managed, using AUSTRAC's templates) to tens of thousands of dollars a year (dedicated compliance staff and enterprise software). Most small and mid-sized Tranche 2 businesses land well below the high end.
Last updated 13 July 2026
Sound familiar?
- You've seen consultant quotes ranging from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, with no clear reason for the gap.
- You don't know if 'free AUSTRAC templates' are actually usable or just a starting point that still needs paid help.
- You need a number to take to a partner or budget approval, not a vague range.
The three cost paths
- DIY with free templates — AUSTRAC's starter kits are free and sector-specific. Cost is mostly your own time: a few hours for risk assessment, half a day to a day for the program. Suits simple, low-risk businesses willing to do the work themselves.
- Compliance software / SaaS — typically a monthly or annual subscription, generating documents and registers for you and keeping records organised. Ongoing cost, but far less time investment than DIY, and less variable than a consultant engagement.
- Consultant or law firm engagement — a specialist writes your program and may advise on edge cases. Typically the highest cost (commonly $2,000–$10,000+ for an initial program, more for ongoing retainers), best suited to complex, high-risk, or multi-entity businesses.
What drives the cost up or down?
Complexity is the main driver, not headcount alone: how many designated services you provide, whether you deal with higher-risk clients (overseas, cash-heavy, complex trust structures), and whether you already have adjacent processes (ID checks, trust accounting controls) that can be adapted rather than built from scratch.
Coming soon
Compliance Cost Calculator
This interactive tool isn't built yet (planned component: ComplianceCostCalculator). Check back soon, or read the guidance above in the meantime.
Where this leaves you
A budget estimate you can defend, based on your actual size and complexity rather than a worst-case consultant quote.
Got a budget in mind? Work out which delivery model actually fits your business →
Should I DIY, hire help, or buy software? →A lightweight AML platform, built exclusively for Tranche 2
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- No compliance expertise required
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This is general information, not legal advice. Always verify current requirements on the AUSTRAC website or seek professional advice for your specific situation.