From Surcharges to Smooth Sailing: What’s next for Aussie Payments

A New Chapter for Payments in Australia: What Merchants Need to Know

 If you are running a business in Australia, it is clear that payments are evolving. From the way customers expect to pay, to how quickly funds arrive in your account, the systems and services behind each transaction are under more scrutiny than ever.

 The proposed July 2026 ban on credit and debit card surcharging will mark a significant shift in how businesses approach payments. For many, it is an opportunity to reassess what they need from a provider, and how payments can support, not restrict, the way they operate.

 At AshorePay, we view this shift as a positive one. It brings greater clarity and fairness to merchants and their customers and encourages providers to deliver real value, rather than rely on hidden fees or confusing pricing models.

Payments have become central to how businesses run

Not long ago, payment processing was seen as a backend function. Something functional, necessary, but largely invisible. That is no longer the case.

 Today, the payment experience is often a customer’s final touchpoint with your business. It can shape their perception, influence loyalty and impact your ability to manage cash flow effectively. With so much now sold, booked and settled through cards and digital channels, payments have become a vital part of your brand.

 The growing demand for simple, integrated systems has led to a wave of innovation. Point-of-sale platforms are becoming smarter, more connected and more user-friendly. Merchants are no longer settling for outdated terminals that offer little more than a tap function. They want reliability, flexibility and tools that support their day-to-day operations.

Flex and Duo: modern tools for modern businesses

 That is exactly why we power our partners with Clover Flex and Clover Pay Duo.

 Flex is a fully mobile terminal that suits businesses on the move. Whether you are a tradie, a marina operator or a vendor attending weekend markets, Flex delivers fast, secure payments in the palm of your hand. It is easy to set up, responsive and built for work outside a traditional counter environment.

 Duo is designed for fixed locations where customer interaction matters. With separate screens for merchant and customer, it creates a smooth, transparent experience. Duo fits seamlessly into cafés, retail stores and front desks where presentation and speed count.

Both solutions are built on the same principle: payments should work for your business, not the other way around. That means no delays in settlement, no complex menu systems and no surprise fees buried in the fine print.

 Why the 2026 surcharge ban matters

 It is very likely looking like from July 2026, businesses will no longer be permitted to apply a surcharge on credit or debit card transactions. For customers, this removes frustration. For merchants, it raises questions about cost, pricing and how providers structure their fees.

In the past, some providers have offered ‘free’ terminals while encouraging merchants to offset their costs through surcharges. With that model coming to an end, there is now a clear shift towards transparent pricing and true service value.

 This is not about criticising other providers. The payments industry in Australia is growing rapidly and has seen genuine improvements in technology and service. What we are seeing now is the next phase of that evolution. One that puts more focus on long-term relationships and practical support.

 The AshorePay difference

We have built AshorePay around the needs of local businesses. That includes everything from how we design our products, to how we support our customers.

One of the key benefits our merchants rely on is same-day settlement. Whether you process $500 or $50,000 a week, your funds arrive when you need them. It is a small detail that makes a big difference to cash flow and confidence, especially for businesses that are seasonal or have high daily turnover. We also believe that support should be part of the package, not an optional extra. Our team is based here in Australia and provides help when you need it, whether that is on day one or day one hundred. For us, it is about offering a consistent, reliable experience that works just as well for small operators as it does for larger organisations.

Looking ahead

 With the payment landscape shifting, now is the time to consider whether your current setup is future-ready.

Are your customers happy with the way they pay? Are you confident your provider is prepared for the surcharge changes? And are you getting the speed, transparency and support your business deserves?

If any of those questions give you pause, it may be worth exploring what else is out there.

 We are excited about what lies ahead. The industry is heading in the right direction, and the changes on the horizon are opening the door for better solutions, better service and better outcomes for everyone involved.

 If you would like to learn more about how AshorePay can support your business through this transition, our team is ready to help.