Contactless Revolution: The Decline of Cash Among Tradies
Digital Payments Transform Tradie Transactions in Australia
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
Australia is embracing a cashless economy, a trend that is significantly reshaping how tradespeople, or "tradies," handle transactions in their day-to-day operations.
Graham Tomkinson, a Western Australian tradie, typifies the shift away from paper money. "Nowadays, nobody pays with cash," he says. Tomkinson has not used cash both in his professional and personal life, a stark contrast to his earlier years when he would carry pocket money.
"I keep my wallet in the car simply to store my Medicare card and tool receipts. If someone stole it, I'd just need to re-register for another Medicare card," explains Tomkinson. This casual approach highlights the diminished presence of cash in his life.
Harrison Lockyer, a 20-year-old mechanic, seconds Tomkinson's experience: "EFTPOS is ubiquitous now. The only time I keep cash is for buying car parts or in case our EFTPOS network fails."
Steven Sousamlis, a builder who operates a bathroom renovation business in Sydney, believes the move towards a cashless society is inevitable. "It's increasingly rare for stores to prefer cash. Obtaining cash from banks feels more tiresome, almost like an inquisition," says Sousamlis. "With ATMs becoming rarer, carrying cash is more of a hassle than it’s worth nowadays."
Phil Cooksey, currently a general manager at Apprentices Are Us LTD and former tradie, vividly remembers when cash ruled the trades industry from 2002 to 2018. "We used to prefer cash. It simplified transactions and often meant work could be done more cheaply. Handling cash was an everyday occurrence," he recounts.
Cooksey is critical of how the decline of cash impacts the perceived value of money. According to him, a $50 note used to be worth $50 throughout, whereas now every card transaction chips away a small percentage. "Each bank fee diminishes the total transaction value," he laments.
Besides the practical shifts, there's a sentiment shared by Graham Cooke, head of consumer research at Finder, suggesting that "cash is dead.” Finder's research shows that ATM usage has been plummeting since 2008 and could disappear entirely by 2030 if the current trajectory continues.
This evolution towards a cashless economy, though gradual, exemplifies how technology and convenience are driving significant shifts in traditional practices, even for cash-dependent professions like trades.
Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.
CFMOTO has officially introduced its flagship adventure motorcycle, the 1000MT-X, to the Australian market. Priced at $18,990 ride away, this model aims to deliver high performance and value to adventure enthusiasts. - read more
Harley-Davidson Australia has unveiled the 'Harley Legend' finance program, a first-of-its-kind offering in the Australian motorcycle industry. This program introduces a Guaranteed Future Minimum Value (GFMV) for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, providing riders with flexible financing options. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has conducted a comprehensive review of the motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant deficiencies in lenders' oversight of intermediaries such as brokers and dealerships. This examination revealed concerning practices, including inconsistent loan establishment fees and inadequate monitoring of sales tactics. - read more
For many, the thrill and freedom that come with owning a motorcycle are unparalleled. Whether you're envisioning leisurely weekend rides through Australia's beautiful landscapes or using it for your daily commute, owning a motorcycle can bring an exciting new dimension to your life. - read more
There's something undeniably thrilling about the roar of a motorcycle engine, the wind rushing past, and the sense of freedom that comes with riding on two wheels. In Australia, this joy is reaching new heights as more people discover the allure of motorcycling. Whether it's the appeal of the open road, the ease of weaving through traffic, or the camaraderie among riders, motorcycling is enjoying a surge in popularity. - read more
Motorcycles symbolize freedom and adventure, but to keep the spirit of the ride alive, regular maintenance is a must. Beyond the roar of the engine and the aesthetic appeal, lies a complex machine that requires careful attention to detail. The importance of regular maintenance for motorcycles extends far beyond keeping up appearances; it plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, performance, and longevity of your cherished two-wheeled companion. - read more
START HERE
Get a free bike loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored
specifically to your circumstances.
Knowledgebase
Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure: A deed instrument in which a borrower conveys all interest in a property to the lender to satisfy a loan that is in default and avoid foreclosure.
