PAF

What is the Postal Address File (PAF)?

The Postal Address File (PAF) is one of the most comprehensive address reference databases in Australia. The PAF is an extract from Australia Post's core addressing database, and has been developed for the purpose of supporting Post's mail processing and delivery operations through AMAS-approved barcoding and address matching software.

What does the PAF contain?

The PAF contains Australian addresses in a correct address format, along with their corresponding DPIDs (Delivery Point Identifiers). Each DPID is a randomly generated, unique 8-digit number, which is associated with an address.

DPIDs can be processed through conversion software to produce the corresponding barcode on the associated mail piece.

What is the availability of the PAF?

The PAF is only made commercially available through the AMAS Program.

160;How often is the PAF updated?

The PAF is released quarterly according to the table below.

Why New Address Data is Made Available in Between PAF Releases

The PAF is released every three months, and as a result there can be a delay in accessing addresses that have been added between the quarterly releases. These additions can be a result of new properties being established, or the discovery of addresses that had been missing from the PAF.

These address additions are provided on a monthly basis as a means to assist in address verification, pending the arrival of the latest PAF update from your AMAS software supplier.

It is anticipated the addresses in these lists will appear in the next quarterly release of the PAF, although there may be rare circumstances where a new address addition may not appear in the PAF. Please refer to the table above for the next available release.

The lists do not include the DPID (Delivery Point Identifier), as DPIDs may only be obtained through approved AMAS software.

Related links and products
Visit our address software page for more information on how to find and capture accurate addresses.