February shake-up: new medical checks for older drivers and AML laws for local pros

In Short:

• Senior Licensing: From February 20, drivers aged 70 and over face more frequent medical checks to keep their licence, a major shift for our regional seniors who rely on their utes.
• Business Red Tape: Local accountants, solicitors, and real estate agents must now comply with strict anti-money laundering (AML) laws.
• Fire Safety: New maintenance standards (AS 1851-2012) become mandatory for all commercial and multi-occupancy buildings from February 13.
• Interest Rates: The RBA just hiked the cash rate to 3.85% (Feb 3), meaning local mortgages and business loans will likely see an increase.

The second wave of 2026 changes

Road safety and regulation: What’s changing this February

Across NSW, several new regulations are coming into effect that will change how we drive and do business.

Starting February 20, a national shift in licensing will see most drivers aged 70 and over required to undergo more regular medical assessments. Unlike the old system, which often relied on self-reporting until older ages, the new rules mandate checks by a GP every one to two years to maintain an unrestricted licence.

For Back Country residents, where public transport is non-existent and the car is a lifeline, the government has stated they will prioritise conditional licences, such as daylight only or local area only, rather than blanket cancellations, to keep seniors mobile and safe.

If you’re a local real estate agent, accountant, or solicitor, your desk just got a lot more crowded. As of this month, these gatekeeper professions must meet full AUSTRAC Anti-Money Laundering (AML) obligations.

What it means: You’ll notice more ID checking and due diligence when dealing with local firms.

The Goal: Preventing the movement of illicit funds through regional property and trust accounts.

NSW Fair Trading is officially beginning its enforcement of the Lithium-ion safety framework on February 1. Retailers in our region must now ensure all e-bikes and e-scooters meet strict fire safety standards at the point of sale. Additionally, lithium-ion batteries are now officially classified as hazardous waste, meaning they can no longer be tossed in your standard farm pit or red-lid bin.

From February 13, owners of commercial buildings, guest houses, and apartment blocks must ensure their fire systems are maintained to the AS 1851-2012 standard. This is a mandatory shift aimed at preventing tragedies in shared accommodation and business spaces.

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Calendar