Trust Accounting Regulations and Resources

If you or your practice (in any form) receives trust money that is required to be deposited in a trust account, you must establish and maintain a general trust account in this jurisdiction with an approved authorised deposit-taking institution (ADI). The Law Society of South Australia has resources and information pertaining to Trust Accounts, which can assist legal practitioners in complying with the relevant legislation.

Please see Important Dates for Legal Practitioners for all important dates through the year for Trust Accounts.

Trust Accounting Management Online Resource

  • The Trust Accounting Management Online Resource (TAMOR) is the central information point for all matters relating to trust accounting. The content has been developed to assist practitioners apply the relevant legislation in daily practice, with relevant narrative and best practice, but the content does not replace the legislation or common law.

    Members, Practitioners and South Australian Law Practice Employees are automatically provided free access to this resource via their Law Society website login. If you are employed at a Law Practice and do not have login details, please email [email protected] to request access. If you do not work in a South Australia Law Practice, you can purchase the online content here.
  • Click here to access the TAMOR

Trust Accounting Courses

  • Both Member and Non-Members can access the Law Society's Trust Accounting Courses. These courses are delivered online and contain modules for legal practitioners and accounts staff who are new to trust accounting, need to refresh their knowledge or want to learn about the requirements to comply with the Legal Practitioners Act 1981 in relation to Combined Trust Accounts.

    The courses include: Trust Accounting I, Trust Accounting II, Combined Trust Account and the Rule 15 Trust Accounting Refresher Course and are eligible for CPD units in Practice Management/Business Skills.
  • Click here for the Trust Accounting Courses

Trust Accounting Software

  • Compliant computerised trust accounting systems are invaluable law practice tools, saving time and money. When used correctly, they provide compliant records on demand at the touch of a button. But they do require strict adherence with regulatory requirements including proper backup.

    There are various computerised trust accounting systems in operation in South Australia including the Society’s own user friendly and cost-effective Trust Accounting Online software.
  • Click here for the Trust Accounting Software

Combined Trust Account Calculator

  • The Combined Trust Account Calculator (CTA Calculator) is available for use by Members, Non-Members and law firm staff. When used correctly, the CTA Calculator can assist legal practitioners comply with the Legal Practitioners Act 1981 in relation to deposits for the periods ending 30 November and 31 May each year, which require your action by the time critical dates of 14 June and 14 December in each year.

    To learn more, the Law Society's Combined Trust Account online course outlines what is required to comply with the requirements.
  • Click here for the CTA Calculator

Trust Updates

Cheque Cessation in Australia
28 March 2025
30 June 2028 is the last date on which any cheques can be drawn in Australia. Cheques written after this date will not be accepted by any ADI and no payment will be made.

Trust Account Compromise
28 March 2025
Are you ready to act swiftly and effectively if trust money is compromised? Our Trust Accounting Management Online Resource contains key information and considerations to help you plan and prepare.