AES Migration Program Updates

Phase 2a of the AES Migration Program in 2025 is nearing completion, as we prepare for a pilot program to commence in 2026. Key deliverables of this phase include:

  • industry test plans, testing scenarios and supporting processes
  • further elaboration and refinement of the Technical Blueprint, Migration Strategy and Migration Handbook
  • development of Stage 1 Issuer and Acquirer Community (IAC) Code Set changes to support Pilot.

Additional activities in this phase include:

  • working with Standards Australia to develop updates to the relevant local standard, AS2805
  • collection of an initial AES Migration Asset Inventory through a structured data collection
  • consultation with participants on the setting of AES Migration sunrise and sunset dates
  • plans for Vanguard Industry Testing and Pilot, including entry and exit criteria, aligned with the Migration Strategy.

The Industry Communications Strategy has evolved during 2025 with the launch of:

  • AES Migration webinars, available to all AusPayNet Members. The latest webinar in November focused on the Technical Blueprint
  • AES quarterly newsletter, The Quantum Leap. The first two editions are available on AusPayNet’s website
  • Sydney and Melbourne AES Migration Open Days for IAC participants with a selection of industry and AusPayNet speakers.

Finally, the ACCC granted authorisation for elements of the program in September 2025, enabling the requisite industry coordination to take place.