Most Australians support businesses accepting cash, according to a report by Money.com.au.
The national survey found that 68% of respondents favour cash mandates across businesses. Consumer cash payments declined from 70% in 2007 to 13% in 2022, per the Reserve Bank of Australia.
“Australians are using less cash overall, but they still believe businesses should be required to accept it. Cash remains the most reliable payment method — when the internet is down, the power is out, or there’s a tech glitch, it’s often the only way to pay,” said Money.com.au Finance Expert Sean Callery.
“It’s also the only way to dodge debit and credit card surcharges — the most hated fee among Aussies, with 39% ranking it above even ATM withdrawal charges (14%).”
An additional 14% support essential businesses like supermarkets and pharmacies accepting cash. Around 13% recommend allowing all businesses to choose whether to accept cash, however.
Just 5% of respondents favour no-cash policies across businesses.
Baby Boomers and Generation X most commonly support all businesses accepting cash, at 83% and 71% respectively. Generation Z are most likely to recommend allowing businesses to choose, at 25%.
Australia’s government plans to mandate cash acceptance for essential items like groceries, with some exceptions for small businesses.
February marked the end of the consultations on the policy. According to the Department of the Treasury, final details will be announced later this year, ahead of a proposed start date of 1 January 2026.
