TLDR
- Gemini registered local entity Gemini Intergalactic Australia with AUSTRAC for crypto exchange services
- Australian users can now trade crypto with AUD through local payment rails
- James Logan appointed Head of Australia with experience from Luno and Bitget
- Exchange pursuing Australian Financial Services License for staking and credit card services
- Australia’s crypto adoption rate stands at 22%, matching United States levels
Gemini crypto exchange has officially registered a local Australian entity with AUSTRAC, the country’s anti-money laundering and financial intelligence regulator. The move enables Australian customers to trade cryptocurrencies using Australian dollars for the first time.
The Winklevoss brothers’ exchange announced the registration of Gemini Intergalactic Australia Pty Ltd on Thursday. This registration is required before any company can offer crypto exchange services in Australia.
Gemini has operated in Australia since August 2019 through its global platform. However, Australian users faced limited asset selection and expensive payment options under the previous arrangement.
The new local registration changes this structure completely. Australians can now access local payment rails and trade with AUD directly on the platform.
Australian Crypto Market Growth
Australia has become one of the world’s most active cryptocurrency markets. Gemini’s Global State of Crypto Report 2025 shows the country’s adoption rate has reached 22%.
This adoption level matches the United States and represents what Gemini calls “headroom for growth.” Saad Ahmed, Gemini’s head of Asia Pacific, noted that crypto penetration in Australia ranges between 23% and 25%.
The exchange ranks among the top 20 cryptocurrency platforms globally by trading volume. Coingecko data shows Gemini recorded over $126 million in trading volume during the past 24 hours.
New Leadership and Sydney Base
Gemini appointed James Logan as Head of Australia to manage local operations. Logan brings experience from his previous role as Country Manager for Luno Australia and a position at Bitget exchange.
The company will establish its Australian headquarters in Sydney. Ahmed confirmed Gemini is building a dedicated local team to support the expansion.
Having a registered local entity removes previous legal restrictions on marketing activities. It also allows the exchange to integrate local financial services more easily.
Pursuing Additional Licenses
Gemini is working toward obtaining an Australian Financial Services License. This license would permit the exchange to offer crypto staking services and crypto-linked credit cards to Australian customers.
Ahmed stated these additional products won’t launch immediately. The exchange needs to complete the AFSL application process first.
The AFSL requirement is part of draft legislation introduced by the Albanese government last month. The proposed laws would tighten oversight of crypto exchanges operating in Australia.
Regulatory Strategy
The Winklevoss brothers are known for active involvement in US crypto policy debates. However, Gemini’s Australian arm plans a different approach.
Ahmed indicated the exchange will observe the government’s consultation process rather than lobby actively. The consultation aims to overhaul Australia’s cryptocurrency regulatory framework.
The draft legislation requires all crypto exchanges to obtain an AFSL. The local crypto industry has responded with cautious support for increased regulatory clarity.
Gemini currently offers trading on a limited number of crypto assets in Australia. The exchange plans to expand its product offerings once it obtains the necessary licenses and completes its local infrastructure buildout.
