Register under Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme (FITS)
Persons undertaking activities on behalf of foreign principals in Australia must register with the AG's Department.
Who must comply
Persons undertaking lobbying, communications, donor activity, disbursement of funds, or general political activities for foreign principals.
What triggers it
Commencing a registrable activity.
When due
Within 14 days of commencement; annual + on-change updates.
Evidence required
FITS registration confirmation; activity records.
Max penalty
Criminal penalties up to 5 years imprisonment for serious offences
Summary
The Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme Act 2018 requires registration of persons undertaking 'registrable activities' on behalf of 'foreign principals' (governments, government-related entities, political organisations, individuals). Annual updates + transaction reporting.
Source legislation
Topics
Source: https://www.transparency.ag.gov.au. Rules Mate is not a law firm. Always verify against the live regulator source before acting.