ASIC sets 30 September crypto licensing deadline

• ASIC has given affected crypto businesses until 30 September to apply for required licences.
• Firms that miss the deadline could face civil and criminal penalties from 1 October.
• More than 45 digital asset businesses have submitted licence applications since October 2025.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has set 30 September as the deadline for affected crypto businesses to seek licences.

From 1 October, firms without the required authorisation could face civil and criminal penalties, including fines of up to 10% of annual turnover.

ASIC said more than 45 digital asset businesses have submitted relevant licence applications since October 2025.

The deadline covers firms seeking an Australian Financial Services licence or changes to an existing licence.

Businesses needing market or clearing licences must also notify ASIC and hold a pre-application meeting before 30 September.

ASIC first introduced temporary relief after updating its digital asset guidance in October 2025, then extended that relief from 30 June to 30 September 2026.

The separate Corporations Amendment (Digital Assets Framework) Act 2026 will begin on 9 April 2027 and introduce further rules for digital asset platforms and custody services.