The Federal Government has directed the ATO to continue accepting credit-card payments until 30 June 2027, delaying the previously announced 1 December 2026 withdrawal. The extension is intended to give the ATO time to consult with small businesses and consider targeted support for taxpayers who rely on cards to manage tax-payment timing.
Why it matters: Businesses using cards to bridge short-term cash-flow gaps have more time to review their tax-payment arrangements.
New card-surcharge ban is now in force From 1 October, businesses can no longer add a surcharge to card payments. The official guidance says businesses should review pricing, payment methods and provider arrangements, particularly where card-processing costs have previously been passed through to customers.
Who is affected: Retail, hospitality, trades, professional services and any business accepting card payments.