Gemini Australia expansion gains AUSTRAC registration and Sydney hires

Gemini Australia expansion is underway: the US exchange has registered locally with AUSTRAC and is building a Sydney team while the government consults on new crypto laws. This step opens access to local payment rails and strengthens compliance.

  • Gemini registered locally to integrate with Australian payment rails.
  • The firm named James Logan to lead its Australia operation from Sydney.
  • AFSL pursuits and the government consultation will shape product rollouts.

What is Gemini Australia local entity plan amid pending crypto laws?

Gemini established a locally registered entity and confirmed AUSTRAC registration on 9 October 2025. Consequently, the firm can more easily connect to local payment systems and align reporting with Australian AML/CTF rules.

What is the expected timeline for Gemini AUSTRAC registration?

AUSTRAC registration is complete as announced on 9 October 2025. However, timelines for further approvals — notably the AFSL — remain dependent on the government consultation and internal compliance work.

How does Australia crypto regulation consultation influence the plan?

Gemini said it will monitor the Australia crypto regulation consultation and pace product launches accordingly. Therefore, the exchange plans a measured rollout while it prepares to meet anticipated AFSL crypto exchange requirements.

How will AFSL crypto exchange requirements impact Gemini in Australia?

What AFSL steps apply to a crypto exchange?

An AFSL typically requires governance, consumer safeguards and robust reporting. Thus, firms must implement KYC, transaction monitoring and risk frameworks before offering financial products like staking or cards.

Will Gemini pursue AFSL status for Australian operations?

Yes. Gemini has stated it is working toward an AFSL to broaden services in Australia. Nevertheless, not all US products will launch immediately; features will follow approvals and compliance readiness.

What compliance measures accompany AFSL obligations?

Expect localised compliance teams, audit‑ready processes and enhanced controls. Importantly, these measures aim to protect users and speed regulator reviews when scaling services.

Where will the Gemini Sydney team operate and what roles will they fill?

Which offices in Sydney host the team?

Gemini will base its Australian arm in Sydney, providing a local hub for customer engagement, partnerships and regulatory liaison. Local presence helps integrate with Australia crypto payment rails and banking partners.

What functions will the gemini sydney team cover?

Teams will focus on product adaptation, payments integration and compliance. In practice, this means hiring for roles in compliance, product management and operations to support Australian users.

How does crypto exchanges in Australia oversight influence Gemini’s operations?

What oversight bodies are involved in Australia?

AUSTRAC leads AML/CTF oversight, while ASIC and licensing frameworks will influence AFSL assessments. Consequently, exchanges must meet reporting, governance and consumer protection standards.

How will oversight affect user protections?

Greater oversight typically brings stronger custody standards, clearer disclosures and improved incident reporting. Therefore, users should expect heightened protections as rules are finalised.

What is the role of Australia crypto payment rails in Gemini’s expansion?

What payment rails are being considered for Gemini?

By connecting to local payment rails, Gemini aims to lower costs and speed settlements for Australian customers. Partnerships with banks and payments providers will be central to this work.

How might rails affect settlement speed and costs?

Local rails usually reduce fees and settlement times versus international transfers. As a result, customers could see faster deposits and withdrawals once integrations complete.

  • Key facts:
    • Local entity registered with AUSTRAC on 9 October 2025.
    • Gemini announced a Sydney-based leadership hire to run Australia operations.
    • AFSL applications and product launches remain subject to the government consultation.

Source: https://en.cryptonomist.ch/2025/10/09/gemini-australia-expansion-austrac-registration/