The Federal Government is legislating a Cash Mandate that will require select retailers accept cash as payment for services. The Cash Mandate is set to apply from January 2026 and today the regulation that will govern the operation of the mandate were released for consultation and comment.
In releasing the exposure draft the Government outlined that the purpose of the Cash Mandate is “to make sure those people who rely on cash can still use it for essential purchases.These regulations will help ensure Australians won’t be left behind for grocery and fuel purchases as many businesses move to cashless payment”.
While the regulations will have exemptions for small businesses the practical implementation concerns are going to be a key point of the consultation process. Key among the concerns are the cost, availability and difficulty in sourcing secure cash handling in regional and remote areas and the consequent safety implications of forcing businesses and staff to handle cash without access to such services.
ACAPMA is engaged in this process and invites Members to reach out to communications@acapma.com.au with comment or make their own submissions on the exposure draft regulations by the consultation closing on 31 October 2025.
ACAPMA
