Most businesses are not required to accept cash for their goods or services. Businesses can set their own terms and conditions and may choose to require a credit card payment or some other form of payment. Payment methods may include a surcharge provided the business has disclosed this to the consumer.

From 1 January 2026, supermarkets and fuel retailers are required to accept cash payments where:

[See Competition and Consumer (Industry Codes — Cash Acceptance) Regulations 2025 (Cth)]

Civil penalties (fines) will apply for non-compliance from 1 July 2026.

The cash acceptance requirements do not apply to certain small business supermarkets or fuel retailers (retailers with an annual turnover of less than $10 million) or fuel retailers that do not regularly sell unleaded petrol. Retailers may also apply to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission for an exemption.

Visit the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission website for more information about payment methods.