For years, Australians have been quietly hit with a hidden “tax” every time they’ve tapped or swiped their card for a coffee, a sandwich or a pint. It might only be 1% or 2%, but it has added up to around $1.6 billion a year. This wasn’t loose change—it was a significant transfer of money through payment systems. Change is now on the way, and at Flash Conveyancing, Julian and Renee focus on transparency—whether it’s your property title or the price you pay at the counter.
So, what’s the big development? The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has confirmed that card surcharges on Visa, Mastercard and EFTPOS transactions will be banned from 1 October 2026.
What this means:
- No more “slug”: The days of unexpected add-on fees are coming to an end. The advertised price should be the price you pay.
- Why the change? The RBA has acknowledged that surcharges no longer serve their original purpose. With around 90% of transactions now cashless, charging extra to pay is increasingly viewed as unfair rather than cost-reflective.
While this is positive for consumers, the change does not take effect until October 2026. In the meantime, surcharge practices will continue. Banks argue they need time to update systems, though it means consumers will keep paying these fees until the transition is complete.
At the same time, Konrad from Punter’s Politics has sparked a lighter—but surprisingly relatable—debate: the “free sauce” issue. If extra fees for simply paying are being phased out, why are people still charged for a small amount of sauce with a pie? The idea has gained traction:
- The mission: Support bakeries, servos and takeaway shops that include sauce at no extra cost.
- The map: Platforms like freesauce.quest track businesses that offer it.
- The signal: “Free Sauce” stickers identify participating stores.
Why this matters to Flash Conveyancing?
It may sound unrelated, but the principle is the same: transparency and fairness. Flash Conveyancing has always operated without hidden charges. That means:
- No hidden fees: Clear, fixed pricing so clients know exactly what they’re paying.
- Substance over spin: Focus on getting the job done properly, not marketing noise.
- Client-first approach: Every contract is handled with care, not treated as a volume exercise.
The October 2026 changes are a positive step for consumers. But transparency shouldn’t be delayed. At Flash Conveyancing, clear pricing and straightforward advice are already standard. No hidden costs, no confusion—just careful work to protect your position.
Flash Conveyancing advice:
Property transactions can carry hidden risks, much like unexpected checkout fees. Always ensure your quote is clear and fixed. Understand the contract before signing, and ask questions early if anything is unclear. Whether buying or selling, clarity and communication make all the difference.
Julian & Renee are the principals of Flash Conveyancing and specialists in property transactions across NSW. With extensive experience working alongside councils including Blacktown, Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, The Hills, Hornsby and Parramatta, they bring a practical, personalised approach to every settlement across Acacia Gardens, Marsden Park, Kellyville, Rouse Hill, Box Hill and surrounding areas.