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.
Australian borrowers have entered July 2026 with a little more breathing space, after the Reserve Bank of Australia left the cash rate unchanged at 4.35 per cent at its 16 June meeting. Money.com.au’s latest July lending update indicates variable home loan rates have remained broadly steady, with some lenders still advertising rates below 6 per cent for eligible mortgage borrowers. - read more
Australia’s general insurance sector is moving towards a significant consumer-protection update, with the Insurance Council of Australia expecting a two-year transition for its redrafted General Insurance Code of Practice. The draft code, released for public feedback in late June 2026, is designed to become enforceable through insurance contracts once it clears the required approval steps. - read more
CFMOTO Australia has launched its 'Ride Forward Sale,' presenting enticing ride-away pricing across its 450cc range. This promotion is available until June 30, 2026, or while stocks last, offering an excellent opportunity for riders to acquire LAMS-approved motorcycles at competitive prices. - read more
When it comes to buying a motorcycle, having a solid credit history can make a significant difference in your loan approval process. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, a good credit history showcases your financial responsibility and reliability to lenders. - 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
Refinancing a motorcycle loan involves replacing your current loan with a new one, typically with better terms. This process can help you save money by securing a lower interest rate, reducing your monthly payments, or even shortening the loan term. - read more
START HERE
Get a free bike loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored
specifically to your circumstances.
Knowledgebase
Payday Loan: A short-term, high-interest loan, typically due on the borrower's next payday.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.