Treasury has released the Australian Government’s Cheques Transition Plan which sets out the next steps to ensure an orderly and planned shift away from the use of cheques by 2030. Background.

It provides a 2‑step timeline for ceasing issuance of cheques by 30 June 2028 and ceasing acceptance of cheques on 30 September 2029 and the government’s expectation for the financial services industry to establish an industry coordination program.

The staged transition plan is:
By 30 June 2028
Cease issuance of personal, commercial, government and bank cheques. Cheques written after this date will not be accepted, and no payment will be made.
On 30 September 2029
Cease acceptance of personal, commercial, government and bank cheques. Cheques will no longer be accepted for payment by financial institutions. Close the cheques system.

Cash

The government also announced it will mandate that certain businesses must accept cash for essential items.

Small businesses in general will be exempted from the cash requirement.

Treasury will consult on what businesses will be affected. They are expected to include supermarkets, those supplying basic banking services, those selling pharmaceuticals, petrol stations, utilities and healthcare services.

Subject to the outcomes of consultation, the mandate would commence from 1 January 2026.

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Author: David Jacobson
Principal, Bright Corporate Law
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About David Jacobson
The information contained in this article is not legal advice. It is not to be relied upon as a full statement of the law. You should seek professional advice for your specific needs and circumstances before acting or relying on any of the content.