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What Is an AFSL?

An AFSL is an Australian Financial Services Licence — the licence a business must hold to legally provide most financial services in Australia. It is issued and regulated by ASIC under the Corporations Act 2001.

Last reviewed: 2026-05-30

AFSL meaning

AFSL stands for Australian Financial Services Licence. It authorises a person or company (the "licensee") to carry on a financial services business in Australia.

The licence is granted by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). The licensing regime sits in Chapter 7 of the Corporations Act 2001 and is designed to make sure financial services are provided efficiently, honestly and fairly.

What an AFSL covers

An AFSL lists the specific financial services a licensee is authorised to provide and the financial products those services relate to. Common authorisations include:

  • Providing financial product advice (general or personal advice)
  • Dealing in a financial product (issuing, applying for, varying or disposing of products)
  • Making a market for a financial product
  • Operating a registered managed investment scheme
  • Providing a custodial or depository service
  • Providing traditional trustee company services

What is an AFSL number?

Every licensee is given a unique AFSL number when the licence is granted. The number stays with that licensee and is used to identify them on the public register.

You will usually see the AFSL number in a financial services guide, on a provider's website, or in product documents. You can use it to look the licensee up and confirm the licence is current and what it authorises.

AFSL vs authorised representative

Not everyone who provides financial services holds their own AFSL. Many advisers and businesses operate as an authorised representative of a licensee instead — they are appointed by an AFSL holder and act under that licence.

On the register you will see both licensees (with their own AFSL number) and authorised representatives (with an authorised representative number) linked to the licensee that appointed them.

Look up any Australian Financial Services Licence by name, AFSL number, ABN or ACN.

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Frequently asked questions

What does AFSL stand for?

AFSL stands for Australian Financial Services Licence, issued by ASIC under the Corporations Act 2001.

Who issues an AFSL?

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) issues and regulates Australian Financial Services Licences.

Is an AFSL the same as a credit licence?

No. An AFSL covers financial products and services. Consumer credit activities are covered by a separate Australian Credit Licence (ACL), also issued by ASIC. Some businesses need both.

How do I check an AFSL number?

You can search an AFSL number, company name, ABN or ACN on AFSL Search to see the licensee, the licence status and its authorisations.

This guide is general information about Australian financial licensing, not legal, financial or compliance advice. AFSL Search is independent and not affiliated with ASIC or AUSTRAC. Always confirm current requirements with ASIC or a qualified professional.