Following a subdued start to the domestic market in 2010, ANZ Banking Group (ANZ) (AA/Aa1) issued the first Australian benchmark deal of the year on February 11 with the issue of A$1.8 billion (US$1.6 billion) of fixed and floating rate, unguaranteed four year paper. The issuer says it is well ahead of its funding task for the financial year and may take opportunities to commence pre-funding for 2010/11.