PayPal launches Australian Developer Program

The program will help developers grow their business and meet the demand for online payments.

It includes free technical tools and resources via a dedicated developer portal, PayPal developer certification and a series of training seminars called Developer Days.

"We're committed to building a local community of developers," said Spiro Rokos, senior manager, Technical Engineering PayPal Australia.

"Merchants rely on developers for advice on payments processing which is why we have created new tools and resources and launched a local certification programme to help developers tap into new revenue opportunities.

"This is also an opportunity for developers to build their business in new market segments. PayPal's solutions meet a wide range of payment processing needs, from enabling charities to raise funds online to helping local schools collect fees."

Developers can access technical tools, applications and online payments resources for free via the Australian developer central portal, as well as qualify for PayPal developer certification.

The certification, which has been customised for the Australian market, enables developers to gain PayPal product expertise.

Accredited developers are listed on a certified developer directory to connect them with potential customers and provide access to potential sales leads.

PayPal is also hosting the first Australian Developer Days from 20^th - 24^th July, a series of technical seminars that gives developers the opportunity to learn more about PayPal's solutions and how they can become certified.

Nerada Stern, CEO of inDemand, a Melbourne-based company specialising in e-commerce solutions, was the first Australian developer to become PayPal certified as part of the U.S. developer programme.

"The educational materials, technical library and certification process are exceptional and the PayPal team has made a great effort to keep us up to date with improvements," said Stern.

"PayPal is so much more than just an online payments system for traditional merchants. It is incredibly flexible and has numerous applications.

"I'm looking forward to the Australian certification process as it means we can apply local product knowledge for the benefit of Australian clients."

Developer Days: July 20^th - 24^th 2009

These free half-day seminars will cover a mix of technical and educational content as well as hands-on product demonstrations by international and local PayPal speakers, including Glenn Lim, global head of vertical markets and alliances.

Each attendee will also receive a voucher to take the PayPal certification exams (normally valued at US$300) free of charge.

Developer Days are open to all web developers/integrators, application developers and professionals interested in integrating e-commerce solutions.

• Sydney: Grace Hotel 20 July 2009 8:30am - 12:00pm
• Brisbane: The Emporium Hotel 22 July 2009 8:30am - 12:00pm
• Melbourne: The Westin 23 July 2009 8:30am - 12:00pm
• Perth: The Sheraton 24 July 2009 8:30am - 12:00pm