Downloads
The government is releasing its Cheques Transition Plan (the Plan) which sets out the next steps to ensure an orderly and planned shift away from the use of cheques.
It provides:
- an overview of the consultation process
- reasons underpinning the transition
- a 2‑step timeline for ceasing issuance of cheques by 30 June 2028 and ceasing acceptance of cheques on 30 September 2029
- the government’s expectation for the financial services industry to establish an industry coordination program.
The Plan outlines the government’s staged process for winding down Australia’s cheques system by 2030. This is part of the government’s strategic plan to ensure we have a modern, competitive and efficient financial system that delivers for the Australian people and economy.
The Plan was developed through feedback on the Winding down Australia’s cheques system consultation paper and considers the concerns raised. The government is taking a leading role working with industry to support all Australians by ensuring cheques’ end users have the assistance they need to switch to other payment methods.
The Plan provides consumers and businesses with certainty on the key milestone dates. This includes an updated 2‑step timeline that establishes when cheques are no longer issued and no longer accepted. It will help coordinate action between the public and private sectors by setting the government’s expectations on industry to support a smooth change.