GS1 Australia has released updated barcode standards that will require adoption of 2D barcodes for certain product categories, with phased implementation beginning in 2026.

Key Changes

2D Barcode Requirements

Products requiring 2D barcodes (QR/DataMatrix):

Fresh produce: From January 2026
Meat and seafood: From March 2026
Pharmaceuticals: From July 2026
Health and beauty: From December 2026

Extended Data Capabilities

New barcodes will encode:

Batch/lot numbers
Expiry dates
Serial numbers (where applicable)
Country of origin
Extended product information URLs

Implementation Requirements

Retailers

Point of sale system upgrades to read 2D codes
Staff training on new scanning procedures
Dual-barcode acceptance during transition

Manufacturers

Label redesign incorporating 2D codes
Data management system updates
GS1 registration compliance

Logistics Providers

Scanner hardware upgrades
WMS integration for extended data capture
Quality control process updates

Benefits

The transition enables:

Enhanced traceability for recalls
Improved inventory rotation (expiry visibility)
Richer product information for consumers
Fraud and counterfeit reduction

GS1 is offering transition support including implementation guides and training programs.