On 1 July 2022, IP Australia implemented WIPO Standard ST.26 version 1.5. This requires all new patent applications that include nucleotide and/or amino acid sequence listings, to be presented in the WIPO Standard ST.26 file format.
This applies to Australian national patent applications as well as international PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) applications.
In November 2022, at the tenth session of the Committee of WIPO Standards, a revised version of WIPO Standard ST.26, version 1.6 was agreed to and will take effect from 1 July 2023.
Versions 1.5 and 1.6 don't differ in substance. This means that sequence listings filed in accordance with either version will comply with our formalities requirements.
WIPO have published the revised version WIPO Standard ST.26 version 1.6 on their website for information purposes only. We encourage all applicants to become familiar with this new version.
Version 1.5 should be continued to be used until 1 July 2023.