Card surcharge ban may increase shelf prices

7News Just In · Sep 30, 2026 · 1m

Australia has implemented a national ban on card payment surcharges, ending the practice that cost consumers $1.6 billion annually. The reforms simultaneously lower the cap on fees banks charge businesses, saving an estimated $910 million per year for small businesses. However, many businesses unable to absorb card payment fees are expected to incorporate the costs into their shelf prices, potentially limiting the promised cost-of-living savings for consumers.

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