Cash Usage Among Australians Stabilises in 2025
New data shows half of Australians use cash weekly as the government introduces measures to ensure payment accessibility.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Couponing
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The Reserve Bank of Australia reports that cash usage ceased its downward trend in 2025, with 50 percent of Australians using cash at least once a week. This marks a shift from a 2022 low of 47 percent as more citizens rely on physical currency for daily transactions.
Why it matters
Cash remains a vital tool for financial resilience, with one in five Australians reporting they would face hardship without it. Additionally, many citizens utilise cash to avoid the extra costs associated with digital card payment surcharges.
In 2025, 15 percent of all payments were made with cash, while 73 percent were card-based transactions. One in four payments under $10 are completed using cash, and three in four Australians report carrying cash on their person.
The players
Reserve Bank of Australia
The nation's central bank is responsible for monetary policy and the stability of the Australian financial system.
Michele Bullock
As the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia, she oversees the institution's response to shifting payment trends.
Armaguard
This major logistics firm is central to the secure transport and circulation of cash across the country.
The details
The Reserve Bank surveyed 1,200 Australians who recorded 14,000 transactions to map current spending habits. While digital payments remain dominant, authorities have implemented regulations to mandate cash acceptance at major retailers and allow for cash-based discounts.
Timeline
2007: Collection of cash usage survey data begins.
2022: Cash usage reaches a record low of 47 percent.
2025: Cash usage stops declining across the nation.
August 2026: Legislation passes regarding Armaguard operations.
1 October 2026: Card surcharges are officially banned.
Culture Shift
The push to preserve physical currency reflects a societal shift away from total digital reliance toward a hybrid model that prioritises financial inclusion. This development counters the trend of cashless retail by establishing legal protections for those who rely on cash for essential daily transactions.
Australians can continue to use cash for small purchases under $10, which remain heavily reliant on physical currency. Retailers are now permitted to offer cash discounts, which may help shoppers save money by avoiding card transaction surcharges.
The takeaway
Maintaining access to cash provides a critical safety net for Australians concerned with financial independence. Consumers should be aware that retailers can now provide incentives for cash payments, potentially altering typical checkout routines.
Further reading
For more on managing household expenses and payment methods, see our Australia Couponing section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Thenewdaily.
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Do you intend to continue using physical cash for your daily purchases?
