Why Australia must seize the moment on crypto regulation
With global momentum building, Vakul Talwar, head of Australia for Crypto.com, says now is the time for Australia to advance clear crypto rules.
In 2025, regulators have clearly renewed their focus on cryptocurrency, fuelled by a global market uplift that has reignited consumer interest. As Australia heads to the polls in May, both major parties are working to deliver a regulatory framework that protects consumers and encourages investment in the sector.
Having been in Canberra inside Parliament House over the last few weeks with senior politicians and bureaucrats, I have observed a distinct change in attitude towards crypto. Across the political spectrum, there is a growing desire to lead in this space, driven by the recognition that it is a key issue for both consumers and the broader economy. As legislative delays persist, pressure continues to mount on regulators to act swiftly.
Conversations in the capital have highlighted three key areas where policymakers see opportunities for Australia to be at the forefront of innovation: payments, stablecoins and tokenisation. Both sides of the chamber are engaging seriously with these emerging use cases as tools to empower consumers, modernise the economy and attract investment. For example, tokenising stocks could enable 24/7 trading, while stablecoins are already improving cross-border payments.
While politicians are working hard, the crypto world is working even harder. This month, more than 70 senior global leaders in the sector gathered in Sydney for Policy Week, hosted by Blockchain APAC. There was a palpable sense of urgency about how Australia can not only keep pace with other nations, but become a global leader in crypto.
