How does the multi-trading name single ABN setup work?
Two configurations: separate operational instances per trading name with a shared RA and Program, or a single instance with trading names as operational labels for shared customer bases.
Overview
Where a business runs multiple trading names or offices under a single ABN, two configuration patterns are supported - the choice depends on whether you want full data separation or just operational labelling. Because AUSTRAC treats everything under one ABN as a single reporting entity, the compliance position is the same either way: one Risk Assessment, one AML Program, and one Compliance Officer. The decision is operational, not regulatory.
Option 1 - Separate platform instances per trading name/office
Each trading name or office is configured as its own operational entity with its own users, customer records and transactions (sharing the single Risk Assessment and AML Program). Users move between them via the entity selector. Best for offices with distinct customer bases, different management, or any expectation of separate compliance audits. Gives strong data separation but requires more configuration.
Option 2 - Single instance with Groups or labels
One platform instance with offices tagged in Groups or as labels on transactions and users. All entities share the same users, customer records and transactions. Best for offices operating as one cohesive business with shared customers, staff and compliance. Simpler, but doesn't provide the same information segregation, and is only available on the Professional and Enterprise tiers.
Different from multi-entity setups
Where a firm has genuinely separate legal entities (different ABNs), each entity needs its own Risk Assessment, AML Program and AUSTRAC enrolment - see the umbrella/holding-company guidance in the KB. Talk to your BDM or Customer Success during onboarding to pick the right configuration.
Related articles
- How can reporting groups be formed under AUSTRAC's framework?
- Why is the entity name displayed on documents different from what the firm uses day-to-day?
- How do I access my AML program?
- How are umbrella/holding companies with multiple trading entities handled?
- Who in my business needs to make decisions before we can start preparing for AML/CTF?