Digital asset firms providing financial services have an additional three months to apply for or vary an Australian Financial Services (AFS) licence, following an extension by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) of its sector-wide no-action position to 30 September 2026.

ASIC is also expanding the scope of its no-action position to include digital asset businesses:

• operating under, or entering into, authorised representative arrangements with an AFS licence holder, and
• operating under, or entering into, intermediary authorisation arrangements with an AFS licence holder.

ASIC says its decision reflects a pragmatic response to industry transition challenges. The extension and broader scope support an orderly path to licensing, while maintaining a focus on investor protection and market integrity.

The 30 September 2026 deadline extension also applies to firms needing an Australian Market Licence or Clearing and Settlement (CS) facility licence, which includes requirements to notify ASIC in writing of their intention to apply and holding a pre-meeting with ASIC.

ASIC has received approximately 30 licence applications from digital asset businesses since October 2025.