KuCoin Registers With Austrac to Operate in Australia, Adds Fiat On-Ramps
KuCoin’s recent registration with AUSTRAC marks a significant milestone in the exchange’s Australian strategy. By bringing its spot trading under the country’s anti-money-laundering framework, KuCoin strengthens compliance and aligns with local regulatory expectations. This move demonstrates the platform’s commitment to operating transparently in Australia while offering a safer trading environment for users.
The registration also complements the introduction of new fiat on-ramp options, making it easier for Australian users to deposit and trade digital assets directly. The development comes amid growing scrutiny of offshore crypto platforms by regulators, who are increasingly clarifying that many digital assets may require licensing. KuCoin’s step ensures it remains competitive while meeting evolving compliance standards in the region.
What KuCoin AUSTRAC registration means
AUSTRAC requires any digital currency exchange operating in Australia to enrol and register before offering services. Registration subjects providers to AML/CTF obligations including customer due diligence, reporting, and ongoing monitoring. KuCoin’s addition to the DCE register allows it to operate under these rules while it builds out local services.
Details of the KuCoin AUSTRAC registration
According to KuCoin and multiple trade outlets, the exchange has secured AUSTRAC DCE status and plans further AUSTRAC registrations for additional designated services. In parallel, its website for Australia notes that Axis One Markets Pty Ltd operates a DCE registered with AUSTRAC, while Echuca Trading Pty Ltd (AFSL 297499) issues derivative products to Australian users an arrangement designed to deliver regulated access to crypto futures. KuCoin+3PR Newswire+3PR Newswire+3
Why the timing matters
On 29 October 2025, ASIC updated guidance (INFO 225 and related materials) clarifying that stablecoins, tokenised products and some exchange activities can be “financial products” under the Corporations Act 2001, meaning providers may need an AFSL or market/CS licences. KuCoin’s registration aligns with that shift and with AUSTRAC’s recent focus on active, compliant DCEs.
Fiat on-ramps and product availability
KuCoin says it has rolled out fiat on-ramp support to simplify AUD deposits and trading for Australians. For derivatives, KuCoin’s collaboration with Echuca Trading routes futures products through an ASIC-licensed issuer, tailoring access to local regulatory requirements.
Market and compliance implications
For users, AUSTRAC registration doesn’t equal an AFSL or product approval but it does signal adherence to AML/CTF controls. For KuCoin, combining AUSTRAC registration with an AFSL-licensed partner for derivatives provides a clearer compliance footprint as Australia tightens enforcement around unlicensed crypto activities.
Context & Analysis
Australia’s supervisory model splits obligations: AUSTRAC registration for AML/CTF, and AFSL/market licences where crypto products meet the definition of “financial products.” KuCoin’s pairing of AUSTRAC registration with an AFSL-licensed partner for futures mirrors structures used by other platforms to navigate Australia’s transitional environment while ASIC finalises reforms.
Conclusion
KuCoin’s recent AUSTRAC registration, combined with new fiat on-ramps and its partnership with Echuca Trading, positions the exchange to better serve Australian users while operating under closer regulatory oversight. These moves reflect KuCoin’s commitment to compliance and transparency in the local market.
Looking ahead, the exchange may pursue additional AUSTRAC designations or licence applications as ASIC’s guidance takes full effect and regulatory deadlines approach. Such steps will be key for maintaining trust, expanding services, and ensuring that KuCoin stays aligned with Australia’s evolving digital-asset regulations.
FAQs
Q : What does KuCoin’s AUSTRAC registration cover?
A : AUSTRAC registration covers AML/CTF obligations for providing digital currency exchange (spot) services in Australia. It is not an AFSL.
Q : Does KuCoin now offer derivatives legally in Australia?
A : KuCoin says futures access for Australians is provided via Echuca Trading (AFSL 297499) as the issuer under ASIC oversight.
Q : Why is the KuCoin AUSTRAC registration significant now?
A : ASIC recently clarified that many digital asset products fall under existing law and may require licensing, prompting exchanges to formalise compliance.
Q : How can I verify KuCoin AUSTRAC registration?
A : Search the AUSTRAC DCE Register in AUSTRAC Online by legal/trading name and check status/conditions.
Q : Does AUSTRAC registration mean my funds are protected?
A : No. It indicates AML/CTF compliance, not deposit insurance or product approval. Review risk disclosures and PDS/TMDs.
Q : What is the difference between AUSTRAC and ASIC?
A : AUSTRAC oversees AML/CTF registration and reporting; ASIC regulates financial products/services under the Corporations Act.
Q : Is the term “KuCoin AUSTRAC registration” the same as a licence?
A : No. KuCoin’s AUSTRAC registration confirms DCE registration, not an AFSL or market licence.
Facts
Event
KuCoin registers with AUSTRAC as a DCE; adds AUD fiat on-ramps; partners with Echuca Trading for regulated futures.Date/Time
2025-11-25T12:00:00+05:00Entities
KuCoin; Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC); Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC); Echuca Trading Pty Ltd (AFSL 297499); Axis One Markets Pty Ltd (DCE operator referenced on KuCoin AU site). KuCoinFigures
AFSL No. 297499 (Echuca Trading). KuCoinQuotes
“KuCoin… plans to register for additional designated services with AUSTRAC.” Company statement (press release). PR NewswireSources
CoinDesk (news) + PRNewswire (press release) + ASIC guidance + AUSTRAC rules. AUSTRAC+3CoinDesk+3PR Newswire+3