Gemini Crypto Exchange Expands in Australia While Crypto Law Remains Uncertain

Gemini Expands in Australia With AUSTRAC Registration and Local Banking Integrations

Gemini is strengthening its presence in Australia with the launch of a locally registered entity, positioning itself to capture growing interest in digital assets across the Asia-Pacific region.

The crypto exchange, which has been accessible in Australia since 2019 under its global entity, can now operate through Gemini Intergalactic Australia Pty Ltd, formally registered with AUSTRAC, the country’s financial intelligence and anti-money laundering regulator.

Why AUSTRAC Registration Changes the Game

Before registering locally, Australian users accessed Gemini’s platform with limited trading options and costly cross-border payments.

Saad Ahmed, Gemini’s head of Asia Pacific, said the new registration allows the exchange to integrate local payment rails such as NPP for instant transfers and PayID for direct account payments, removing the need for transfers to U.S. accounts.

According to Ahmed,

“We’re changing that because we think Australia is a market that we want to be in, and it’s a market that we want to grow, so we’re going to build a local team here.”

The exchange will be based in Sydney under the leadership of James Logan, former head of Luno Australia and a senior figure at Bitget, who will oversee strategy, partnerships, and customer growth.

Logan said,

“Australians are increasingly turning to trusted platforms to manage their digital assets, and I’m thrilled to lead Gemini's efforts here and to build a strong presence that will support long-term adoption and innovation.”

What Products Will Be Offered and Regulatory Plans

Gemini is applying for an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL) to expand offerings, including crypto staking, derivatives for wholesale clients, and potentially credit card products.

Ahmed noted,

“We’re not going to have all of the products that we offer in the US, for example, the credit card and staking, out of the gate, but we’re working on it.”

The exchange is taking a cautious approach to Australia’s evolving crypto regulations.

Draft legislation released by the Albanese government last month proposes broader oversight, requiring crypto firms to hold AFSLs under the Corporations Act.

Ahmed said,

“There’s going to be some back and forth between the industry and the government for some time. We’ll probably take the position of just observing and seeing how things play out over the next few months.”

He added,

“There is an existing ecosystem here, we’re somebody new that’s coming in, and we just want to make sure that we’re building and focused on our customers.”

Australia’s Crypto Market Remains Attractive Despite Regulatory Uncertainty

Australia has emerged as a major market for digital assets, with Gemini’s Global State of Crypto 2025 report showing 22% of the population owning cryptocurrencies, a figure comparable to the U.S. market.

Source: Gemini

This high adoption rate, combined with a clear regulatory framework, offers potential for both retail and institutional growth.

Gemini’s expansion arrives amid rising competition from global and local exchanges such as Coinbase, Kraken, Swyftx, and CoinSpot.

Local banking integrations offer Gemini a distinct operational advantage in a market where banks have often restricted crypto transactions.

The company’s ability to facilitate seamless Australian dollar deposits and withdrawals may provide a critical edge over competitors.

Can Gemini Turn Global Strength Into Local Success?

While Gemini’s move into Australia demonstrates ambition, Coinlive sees potential challenges in a highly competitive market with complex regulations.

Its strong U.S. presence gives it credibility, but turning that into a local advantage will require more than brand recognition.

The exchange’s cautious regulatory stance may safeguard it in the short term, yet it must move swiftly to capture market share, expand payment and product offerings, and prove it can sustain growth in a region facing mounting compliance pressures.