On May 7, 2025, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) issued a draft determination proposing to grant authorization AA1000689. This authorization would allow the Australian Payments Network Limited (AusPayNet) and members of the Australian Paper Clearing System to collaborate in the government's initiative to phase out the use of cheques in Australia.

The proposed conduct includes forming agreements with various stakeholders, including the Reserve Bank of Australia, government entities, and industry participants. This collaboration is part of the Treasury’s Cheques Transition Plan, which aims to stop issuing cheques by June 30, 2028, and to completely close the cheques system by September 30, 2029.

On December 18, 2024, the ACCC granted interim authorization to AusPayNet to begin preparatory actions necessary for the transition. The ACCC's proposal includes a condition for the authorization to remain valid until December 31, 2030.

The ACCC is currently inviting submissions regarding the draft determination, with a deadline set for May 23, 2025, before making a final decision. More details about the ACCC's decision can be found on their public register.