Australian Payments Network Limited

On 27 November 2024, Australian Payments Network Limited (AusPayNet) lodged an application on behalf of itself and members of the Australian Paper Clearing System (APCS) to engage in conduct to make and give effect to agreements between each other and/or third parties (including the Reserve Bank of Australia and Government and industry participants) that are necessary to carry out the Government’s proposed plan to wind down Australia’s cheques system, and engage in discussions and exchange information that is for the purposes of, and reasonably necessary for, facilitating the Government’s proposal.

Authorisation was sought until 31 December 2030.

On 18 December 2024, the ACCC granted interim authorisation to AusPayNet and members of the APCS to take preparatory steps to begin the work needed to meet the Government’s established timetable for the winding down of the cheques system.

On 7 May 2025, the ACCC issued a draft determination proposing to grant authorisation with a condition for AusPayNet’s proposed arrangements in winding down the cheques system for 6 years. Authorisation is proposed to be granted for 6 years. A copy of the draft determination is available below.

On 23 May 2025, the ACCC updated the timeline for its consideration of the final determination to extend the period for the ACCC to make its final determination in this matter until 18 July 2025.

On 2 July 2025, the ACCC issued a final determination granting authorisation, with a condition, until 31 December 2030.

Copies of the ACCC’s interim authorisation, draft determination and final determination are available below.