Australia's new framework puts exchanges and custody providers under financial services law, naming ASIC as the primary regulator. The move aims to boost consumer protections and regulatory certainty for crypto firms and investors.

ASIC is expanding its oversight of digital assets by introducing formal licensing for exchanges, custodians, and stablecoin issuers, aiming to protect Australian investors and clarify regulatory requirements under the Corporations Act 2001. This includes higher custody standards and a transitional period for compliance.