May 27, 2025
Building an Australian Funds Business: 6 Key Considerations for Offshore Fund Managers
Thinking about building an Australian funds business from offshore? Here are six key considerations to know about.
Australia's financial services regulations are becoming increasingly complex. Legal teams face increased pressure to provide pragmatic, commercially oriented advice over and above compliance support. From product design and distribution obligations, additional regulatory scrutiny of private markets, and stricter cyber security and Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing obligations, fund managers face increasing regulatory challenges.
Fund managers need proactive, knowledgeable legal partners deeply aligned with the financial services sector. Let's explore what fund managers need their legal counsel to deliver — and why lawyers should take note.
In a climate of regulatory reforms and increased scrutiny, fund managers require legal advisors who can anticipate regulatory changes and consult on their strategic implications.
Specialist legal teams who can translate these regulatory shifts into practical strategies add a reliable and tangible impact to financial services businesses. In turn, this applied expertise builds trust, reinforcing long-term relationships and boosting ROI for both parties.
Fund managers value legal advisors who have a solid grasp of financial products, market dynamics and investors' and regulators’ expectations. A tighter regulatory environment — with more reforms on the way — demands lawyers who can execute complex transactions, such as optimal structuring of managed investment schemes or providing advice on cross-border offerings.
Boutique firms specialising in financial services law can offer clients tailored advice and agile solutions, as well as the opportunity for lawyers to strengthen their expertise.
Legal teams should be able to identify potential risks and provide legally sound, commercial solutions before issues arise. Knowledgeable legal advisors can help fund managers prepare for regulatory reviews and audits, ensuring a responsive positioning in line with regulatory obligations.
This mitigates reputational risk exposure in the financial services industry.
Boutique law firms with specialist expertise in the financial services industry offer fund managers customisable services. By building a close collaboration with the right legal team, you can achieve:
Specialist firms often better understand specific challenges and opportunities within the sector, bringing clients a competitive advantage in the market.
Shifting regulations in Australia's financial services market are adjusting fund managers' expectations. Now, sector expertise, responsiveness, practical advice and proactive risk management measures are more important than ever for fund managers and legal experts.
Boutique firms with connected teams of skilled industry experts, like PMC Legal, are well-positioned to meet these demands. If you need specialist expertise to protect your funds management business and enhance your prospects of success, reach out to PMC Legal to discuss how we can help.
Are you seeking to deepen your industry expertise in a driven and rewarding environment? Contact Paula to explore career pathways and opportunities.
