A buyer offers AU$15,000 cash as a holding deposit. What now?

If you accept it, lodge a TTR within 10 business days and consider whether the circumstances also raise a suspicion.

Threshold transaction reports: cash of AU$10,000 or more in a property deal

What triggers it

Notes and coins only. Transfers, cheques and cards do not.
AU$10,000 or more in one transaction. Several smaller cash payments that seem designed to stay under the threshold are not a TTR, but they are a reason for a suspicious matter report.
Received in connection with a sale, typically a deposit into trust.

What to record

Date, amount, currency.
Who paid it, with identification.
The property and the transaction.
Who at the agency handled it.

The simplest policy

Do not accept cash of AU$10,000 or more, say so in your program, and never lodge a TTR. If you do accept cash, log it the day it happens so the 10-day clock is visible.

Questions people ask

A buyer offers AU$15,000 cash as a holding deposit. What now?: If you accept it, lodge a TTR within 10 business days and consider whether the circumstances also raise a suspicion.

This guide is general information for real estate agents, buyers agents, property managers, not legal advice. Check AUSTRAC's current guidance for your situation.