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
Related obligations
- CWLTHRegister on the Federal Lobbyists RegisterThird-party lobbyists contacting Commonwealth officials must register + observe the Lobbying Code.
- CWLTHRespond to FOI requests within 30 days (Cwlth agencies + ministers)FOI Act 1982 — Commonwealth agencies + ministers must respond to access requests within 30 days.
- CWLTHBeneficial ownership transparency (Tranche 3 — under consultation)Proposed beneficial ownership register for unlisted companies and trusts — consultation through 2024-2025; commencement TBD.
- CWLTHPolitical donation disclosure thresholds (federal + state)Federal disclosure threshold $17,300+ (2024-25). State thresholds + caps vary.
- VICComply with Vic FOI Act 1982 (state)Victorian agencies + ministers respond to state FOI requests within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
- Who must comply with under Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme (FITS)?
- Persons undertaking lobbying, communications, donor activity, disbursement of funds, or general political activities for foreign principals.
- What triggers under Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme (FITS)?
- Commencing a registrable activity.
- When is under Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme (FITS) due?
- Within 14 days of commencement; annual + on-change updates.
- What is the maximum penalty for under Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme (FITS)?
- Criminal penalties up to 5 years imprisonment for serious offences
- What evidence is required for under Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme (FITS)?
- FITS registration confirmation; activity records.
Source: https://www.transparency.ag.gov.au. Rules Mate is not a law firm. Always verify against the live regulator source before acting.