Australians demand their right to pay with cash for essentials

As digital wallets and credit cards continue to replace cash as the primary method of payment, many Australians are voicing concerns about a future where physical currency becomes obsolete.

A new survey conducted by CHOICE, Australia’s leading consumer advocacy group, reveals that over 97 per cent of Australians believe businesses selling essential goods and services should be required to accept cash.

The survey, which gathered insights from more than 12,000 CHOICE supporters, highlights a sense of urgency surrounding the issue. Key findings reveal that 83 per cent of Australians still use cash at least periodically for everyday purchases, underscoring the continued importance of cash as a payment method.

But it’s not just urban dwellers who feel this way. The survey also reveals a stark divide between urban and rural Australians. A staggering 97 per cent of respondents living in regional or remote areas reported that fewer places or methods to access cash in the future would have an impact on them.

Additionally, 83 per cent of rural respondents said that if cash withdrawals in their local communities were only possible with a small fee, it would have a moderate to significant impact on their ability to carry out everyday tasks.

CHOICE Head of Policy, Tom Abourizk highlighted the importance of these findings.

“Ensuring ongoing access to cash is an issue that urgently needs addressing, with our survey showing that 83% of respondents still use cash for essential goods and services sometimes, usually or always,” Abourizk said.

“Cash must be accessible, accepted by businesses selling essentials, and consumers should be able to pay with cash without any surcharges.

“Our survey found that cash accessibility and acceptance are particularly important for communities outside of cities. 97% of respondents living in country or remote areas reported that having fewer places to access cash would have some impact on them. Many of these communities have already been hit with multiple bank branch and ATM closures.”

The findings come as the Federal Government moves to safeguard Australians’ ability to pay with cash for essential items, ensuring millions who rely on banknotes are not left behind as the economy becomes increasingly digitised.

Under a proposed mandate set to take effect in 2026, businesses such as supermarkets, pharmacies, and petrol stations that sell essential items like groceries and fuel will have to accept cash payments.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers announced the proposal, emphasising that keeping cash in circulation and ensuring it remains a viable payment option will provide Australians with “security and peace of mind.”

“We’re making cash an ongoing feature of our economy even as we modernise the payment system,” Chalmers told ABC TV. 

“That’s because we understand that for a lot of people, cash is a lifeline, it’s a backup, it gives people security and peace of mind.”