The 2026 changes: what small business needs to know

This page is written for small Australian businesses. It explains why the change matters more for you, what it means in practical terms, and the simple steps that put you in control — without the jargon. For the official rules and timing, the RBA's site at rba.gov.au is the source of truth.

Why it hits — and could help — small business most

Small businesses run on thinner margins and have less room to absorb costs than large chains. They are also less likely to have negotiated a sharp merchant rate, because they have smaller volumes and less bargaining power. So when surcharging is removed and the card fee lands directly on the business, a small operator on a high rate feels it more than almost anyone.

But the reforms cut both ways. Because the RBA is lowering interchange — a core part of what you pay — and has flagged small businesses as likely beneficiaries, the same package that exposes a high rate may also reduce the underlying cost. And the businesses most likely to be on an uncompetitive rate have the most to gain from comparing and switching.

What it means day to day

In practical terms, the surcharge line many small businesses add at the checkout goes away for eftpos, Mastercard and Visa from 1 October 2026. Customers see a cleaner price; you keep that card cost. PayPal is not covered by the RBA ban, so a compliant PayPal surcharge within your cost of acceptance can continue. American Express is also outside the RBA ban, but providers including Tyro and Eway have said they will remove Amex surcharging on 1 October 2026, and Eway reports Amex has announced its own change from that date, so confirm the Amex position with your provider. You cannot disguise a card surcharge as an "admin" or "service" fee, which remains prohibited under the Australian Consumer Law.

Nothing about your terminal needs to change for this. For a cafe doing thousands of small taps, or a workshop doing a handful of big invoices, the maths differs but the principle is the same: the rate you pay is now yours to manage. Our industry guides break down how fees behave in your specific trade.

Three simple steps

First, find your blended rate from a recent statement. Second, note any fixed terminal or monthly fees, and plan to switch off surcharging on eftpos, Mastercard and Visa by the start date. Third, compare your rate — because a lower rate is now a direct saving every month, and the new rules requiring providers to publish fees make comparison easier.

Our savings calculator turns your rate into an estimated annual figure in seconds, and a free comparison gives you exact numbers with no obligation. If we can't beat your rate, our guarantee means we'll pay you $100, subject to its terms. With the reforms estimated to save businesses and consumers up to ~$1.8 billion a year collectively, there is no better time to make sure your slice of it is as large as it can be.

Sources: RBA Conclusions Paper media release (mr-26-10) · ACCC card surcharges guidance · Eway: RBA reform response · Tyro: surcharge ban confirmed.

Information current as at 2 July 2026.