Keeping Payment Options Open for Small Business

Across the southern Gold Coast, business owners are working hard to serve their customers, support their staff and plan for the future. They need policies that recognise the pressures of running a business and give them flexibility to manage their finances.

One issue Chamber members should be aware of is the planned withdrawal of direct credit card payments to the Australian Taxation Office. For businesses that use this option, the change has implications for cash flow and financial planning.

Following concerns raised by business groups, the Government has extended the transition period. The ATO will continue accepting credit card payments until 30 June 2027. After that date, credit card payments will remain possible through third-party providers, although businesses should check the fees and processing times involved.

The decision to withdraw direct payments followed changes to card surcharging rules and the ATO’s position that it could not absorb the processing costs.

For some businesses, credit cards provide flexibility when customer payments and tax deadlines do not align. Removing a familiar payment option can mean changing established arrangements and finding another way to manage those competing commitments.

My view is that businesses should retain practical payment choices. The Coalition has committed to reversing the withdrawal of direct credit card payments to the ATO, giving businesses continued access to this option.

More broadly, small businesses need manageable costs, clear rules and consultation before changes that affect their daily operations. Policy should reflect the realities of running a business, including the time owners spend managing administration alongside serving customers.

I encourage Chamber members affected by these changes to share their experiences with my office. Your feedback helps me explain the practical consequences of policy decisions and advocate for workable solutions.

Thank you to the Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce for continuing to represent and support our businesses.