Sydney Futures Exchange Plans For Y2K

The Sydney Futures Exchange (SFE) and its subsidiary the New Zealand Futures and Options Exchange (NZFOE) have set-up a Command Centre and message system for the Year 2000 changeover weekend. The SFE and NZFOE Command Centre and message system will be operational from 31 December 1999. The Command Centre will take support calls and queries, and manage communications between external parties and the Exchanges. The recorded voice message system will provide all interested parties, including media, with Y2K status updates for both Exchanges. SFE and NZFOE conducted a comprehensive Y2K program throughout the year that involved numerous cycles of ageing and testing of the Exchanges' core systems, and included an Industry Wide Test with Exchange Members and Back Office Accounting providers. The testing of both markets was completed successfully. All information made available during the Y2K changeover weekend and all previous Y2K-related matter can be obtained via the Y2K pages on SFE's web site - www.sfe.com.au The Command Centre toll-free telephone numbers according to the country of inquiry are: Australia 1800 118 099; New Zealand 0800 900 022; Japan 00531 61 0024; UK 0800 169 8571; Hong Kong 800 908 984. Alternatively, the Command Centre can be contacted directly on: +61 2 9298 0154; SFE and NZFOE cease trading at 11.00am EST and 12.00 noon NZT respectively, on 31 December 1999. SFE will recommence trading at 8.30am EST, 4 January 2000 and NZFOE at 8.00am NZT, 5 January 2000. For further information please visit the Y2K pages on SFE's web site - www.sfe.com.au.