Financial Crime Symposium 2025 – Key Highlights

A panel featuring the Home Affairs Department provided a deep dive into Australia’s financial intelligence priorities, including money laundering offences and unexplained wealth. Panellists explored the evolution of approaches in financial intelligence, particularly the growing role of collaborative analytics, and shared reflections on the impacts already being seen as well as where greater focus is needed in the fight against financial crime.

A dedicated discussion on scams explored the fundamental shift taking place in how Australia responds to this growing threat. With the mandatory scams prevention framework announced and sector codes pending, panellists reflected on the challenges of restoring trust in institutions, the common friction points experienced by consumers when reporting scams, and the progress that had already been made in strengthening dispute resolution.

This panel explored how financial crime operations are evolving, from balancing efficiency with effectiveness under cost pressures, to embracing technology as a driver of innovation. They reflected on the big shifts of the past five years and shared what’s next as the sector moves from technical compliance to outcomes-focused approaches.

Senior industry experts and SymphonyAI explored the key leadership, talent, and workforce challenges shaping Australia’s financial crime landscape. They discussed how AML/CTF reforms, technology changes, and talent shortages are making strong leadership more critical than ever, and shared insights on navigating these evolving pressures.

A session highlighted the vital role of industry collaboration in combating financial crime, including public-private partnerships and the flow of intelligence from industry to law enforcement.  Our industry and law enforcement presenters showcased how these efforts are translating into tangible outcomes, from confiscations to arrests and prosecutions, emphasising the power of coordinated action in disrupting financial crime across Australia.

The symposium concluded with a forward-looking session and explored how the financial crime industry is evolving in its use of AI. Our senior Deloitte AI experts discussed what needs to be in place to adopt AI effectively, the risks involved, and the importance of monitoring regulations and frameworks to ensure responsible implementation.