Suspicious Matter Reporting
This course explains how to identify and report suspicious matters in the workplace. It helps teams understand their responsibilities and take the right action to prevent financial crime and protect the business.
Course overview
Suspicious Matter Reporting (SMR) is one of the most critical obligations under Australia's AML/CTF framework. When your venue identifies activity that raises suspicion of criminal conduct, you are legally required to report it to AUSTRAC — and getting this right matters.
This module is designed for managers and compliance officers working in hospitality and gaming environments. It covers your SMR obligations under the AML/CTF Act, the legal consequences of failing to report, and how to ensure your venue meets its responsibilities every time.
Languages
Available in English
What you’ll learn
- Learn suspicious matter reporting to support AML compliance, identify financial crime risks, and meet reporting obligations with practical workplace training.
- Explain the legal basis for Suspicious Matter Reporting Understand where the SMR obligation sits within the AML/CTF Act and what it means for your venue as an AUSTRAC-regulated business.
- Identify what constitutes a suspicious matter Recognise the thresholds and criteria that legally trigger the requirement to submit an SMR.
- Describe the consequences of failing to report Understand the civil and criminal penalties that can apply to individuals and businesses that do not meet their SMR obligations.
- Apply the tipping-off provisions Know what you are legally prohibited from disclosing once a suspicious matter has been identified, and why this restriction exists.
- Support your venue's SMR compliance Ensure the right processes, escalation pathways, and documentation practices are in place to meet your obligations consistently and on time.
Why choose this course?
- Supports AML/CTF compliance and reporting obligations
- Reduces risk of financial crime and regulatory penalties
- Builds staff confidence in identifying and reporting concerns
- Promotes a strong compliance and risk-aware culture
Legal context
Suspicious matter reporting is required under Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) laws. Businesses must report certain activities to regulatory authorities within set timeframes. This training helps organisations meet their legal obligations and demonstrate effective risk management.