Cash may not be king everywhere anymore, but it’s certainly not going away. New ACCC Cash Acceptance Industry Codes, which commenced on 1 January 2026, require certain supermarkets and fuel retailers across Australia to offer customers a reasonable opportunity to pay with cash for eligible in-person purchases. Businesses that fail to comply may be subject to enforcement action and civil penalties from 1 July 2026. These reforms are designed to ensure Australians can continue accessing essential goods, particularly during technology outages or payment system failures.
The new rules are more specific than many people realise. They apply only to eligible supermarkets and motor fuel retailers, generally for in-person purchases of $500 or less between 7:00 am and 9:00 pm. Some small businesses and certain fuel retailers may be exempt, while some relatively small operators trading under the branding of larger retail groups may still be required to accept cash.
Many property buyers naturally ask whether these changes mean they can pay a property deposit or even settle a property purchase using cash. The answer is no. In New South Wales, property transactions are completed electronically through approved Electronic Lodgment Networks such as PEXA, with settlement funds transferred through secure banking systems. In addition, Australia’s AML/CTF regime requires strict identity verification and source of funds checks, making large cash property transactions unsuitable for modern conveyancing.
Cash Acceptance Rules at a Glance
| Situation | What Applies? |
| Supermarkets and fuel retailers | Must provide a reasonable opportunity to accept cash in certain circumstances. |
| Transaction value | Up to $500 for eligible in-person purchases. |
| Trading hours | Generally between 7:00 am and 9:00 pm. |
| Small business exemptions | Businesses with an annual turnover of less than $10 million may be exempt. |
| Property settlements | Completed electronically through PEXA and secure banking systems, not with physical cash. |
| Identity verification | AML/CTF laws require verification of identity and source of funds for property transactions. |
Secure electronic settlements provide certainty for everyone involved in a property transaction. Buyers know their funds are transferred safely, sellers receive cleared settlement proceeds, and lenders, conveyancers and government agencies can complete registrations efficiently. While cash remains important for many everyday purchases, property transactions rely on secure digital systems supported by rigorous legal and identity verification processes.
Technology has undoubtedly transformed conveyancing, but strong security still depends on people. Careful verification of bank details, robust identity checks and professional oversight remain among the best safeguards against cybercrime. Working with an experienced conveyancer who follows strict security procedures can help ensure your transaction progresses safely from exchange through to settlement.
Flash Conveyancing Adive
Cash remains an important part of Australia’s economy, but property settlements operate under a very different legal framework. Before transferring any funds, always verify your bank account details directly with your conveyancer and never rely solely on emailed payment instructions. A simple phone call could prevent a very costly mistake.
At Flash Conveyancing, Julian & Renee understand that modern property transactions demand the perfect balance between technology and personal oversight. While every settlement is completed securely through electronic platforms such as PEXA, they never rely on technology alone. By combining meticulous identity verification, secure communication protocols and hands-on guidance throughout every stage of the transaction, they help buyers and sellers protect both their money and their peace of mind.
With extensive experience throughout the Blacktown, Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, The Hills, Hornsby and Parramatta council areas, Julian & Renee proudly assist clients buying, selling and transferring property across Acacia Gardens, Angus, Arndell Park, Blacktown, Colebee, Glendenning, Glenwood, Grantham Farm, Kellyville Ridge, Kings Langley, Marsden Park, Melonba, Oakhurst, Parklea, Quakers Hill, Riverstone, Schofields, Seven Hills, Stanhope Gardens, Tallawong, The Ponds, Baulkham Hills, Beaumont Hills, Bella Vista, Castle Hill, Kellyville, Kenthurst, North Rocks, Northmead, Rouse Hill, Vineyard, Windsor, Annangrove, Box Hill, Cattai, Dural, Gables, Galston, Glenhaven, Glenorie, Maraylya, Middle Dural, Nelson, North Kellyville, Norwest, Winston Hills, Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong. Whether you’re buying, selling or transferring property, Flash Conveyancing combines cutting-edge electronic settlement systems with genuine personal service to ensure every transaction is secure, compliant and completed with confidence.
