Whether you’re moving to self-licensing or entering financial or credit services, we guide you through a compliant and efficient AFSL or ACL application, and help you establish the frameworks needed to maintain your licence with confidence.
If you are currently operating as an authorised representative or planning to enter financial or credit services, moving to your own licence is a significant step. It gives you greater control over your business, your clients and your compliance framework, but the application process is detailed and often underestimated.
Applying for an AFSL or ACL requires more than completing forms. You need to clearly define your authorisations, demonstrate organisational competence, nominate suitable Responsible Managers and prepare robust compliance and risk management frameworks that meet ASIC expectations.
Securing your AFSL or ACL is only the first step. We also help you establish and maintain the compliance frameworks required to meet your ongoing licence obligations. Learn more about our governance and compliance support.
We guide you through the entire AFSL or ACL application process, from initial licence strategy and structure through to preparation, submission and ASIC engagement, so your application is clear, compliant and aligned with ASIC expectations.
Transition from authorised representative to self-licensing
Enter financial or credit services with the right strategy and structure
Apply with confidence using a compliant, ASIC-ready approach
If you intend to provide financial services or credit services in Australia under your own authority, you will generally need an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) or an Australian Credit Licence (ACL).
You are likely to need an AFSL if you:
You are likely to need an ACL if you:
Not sure which licence applies to your business? We can assess your model and recommend the right structure.
Some businesses require both an AFSL and ACL, depending on the services they offer.
If you are currently operating as an authorised representative or credit representative, moving to your own licence can give you greater control over your business, your client relationships and your compliance framework.
We can help you determine whether an AFSL, ACL or a combination of both is appropriate, and guide you through the most effective licensing pathway based on your business model.
Choosing the right licence is a critical first step. Applying for an AFSL or ACL requires you to define your authorisations, demonstrate organisational competence, nominate suitable Responsible Managers and establish compliant risk and compliance frameworks that meet ASIC expectations.
Getting this wrong can lead to delays, additional costs or unnecessary restrictions on your licence. We help you assess your business model, determine whether an AFSL, ACL or both is appropriate, and structure your application so it is clear, compliant and aligned with ASIC requirements from the outset.
We manage the process end-to-end, so you can focus on building your business.
Our support includes:
Assess and position Responsible Managers
Align your Responsible Managers with the requirements of ASIC RG 105 to demonstrate organisational competence.
Structure and manage your application
Navigate the ASIC e-licensing process with a clear, well-prepared AFSL or ACL application.
Prepare ASIC-ready proof documents
Develop organisational competence, compliance and risk management frameworks that meet ASIC expectations.
Provide clear, practical guidance
Work through requirements in plain English so your documentation is accurate and complete.
Review and refine before submission
Identify gaps and resolve issues early to reduce delays, queries or rework.
Manage ASIC engagement
Liaise with ASIC throughout the assessment process and respond to requests efficiently.
We tailor each AFSL or ACL application based on your business model, services and regulatory requirements, ensuring your licence structure is appropriate, scalable and aligned with ASIC expectations.
Structure your AFSL or ACL to match your services now and as you grow.
Align experience and competence with ASIC RG 105 requirements.
Select the right level of assistance across application and documentation.
Develop compliant systems, manuals and processes aligned with ASIC expectations.
Book a consultation to discuss your AFSL or ACL application. We will assess your business, clarify the right licensing pathway and outline the steps required to move forward with confidence.
Get practical guidance on your licence strategy, Responsible Managers and application requirements before you commit to the process.
We’ve never had an AFSL application rejected by ASIC.
An Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) is a licence issued by ASIC that allows you to legally provide financial services in Australia, including financial advice, dealing in financial products and issuing financial products.
The specific authorisations on your AFSL determine the types of services and products you are permitted to provide.
An Australian Credit Licence (ACL) is a licence issued by ASIC that allows you to legally engage in credit activities, such as providing credit assistance, acting as an intermediary between borrowers and lenders, or offering consumer loans.
You will generally need an ACL if you provide credit assistance or act as an intermediary in relation to credit products. This includes mortgage brokers, finance brokers and businesses that provide or arrange consumer loans.
If you operate under another licensee, you may act as a credit representative rather than hold your own ACL.
To obtain an ACL, you must demonstrate organisational competence, maintain appropriate compliance and risk management systems, and have adequate financial and human resources. You will also need to nominate Responsible Managers with relevant experience and ensure your business meets ASIC’s responsible lending and conduct obligations.
The Licence application process can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the readiness of your policies and proofs. Typically, although we can expedite your application it can take several months for ASIC to review and approve an application.
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