Contactless Revolution: The Decline of Cash Among Tradies
Digital Payments Transform Tradie Transactions in Australia
6
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.
KTM AG, the renowned Austrian motorcycle manufacturer, has successfully secured €600 million in funding, enabling the company to fulfill its restructuring plan and stabilize its financial position. This development is particularly significant for Australian riders and dealers who rely on KTM's presence in the market. - read more
In a significant development for the motorcycle industry, KTM AG has successfully secured €600 million in funding, enabling the company to fulfill its restructuring plan and stabilize its financial position. This funding comes at a crucial time, as KTM faced a severe financial crisis that led to self-administration and a comprehensive restructuring process. - read more
Peter Stevens Motorcycles, a cornerstone of the Australian motorcycle retail industry, has entered voluntary administration, casting uncertainty over the future of the company and its approximately 400 employees. Founded in 1970 by the Chiodo family, the retailer expanded to 15 locations across Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, and Western Australia, representing major brands such as Harley-Davidson, Ducati, and Triumph. - read more
Embarking on a motorcycle road trip across the breathtaking landscapes of Australia can be an exhilarating experience. The sense of freedom and adventure that comes with cruising on two wheels is unparalleled. However, before the rubber meets the road, it's essential to lay the financial groundwork for your journey. This not only ensures peace of mind but also enables you to enjoy the ride without monetary worries. - read more
There's nothing quite like the thrill of buying your dream motorcycle. The freedom of the open road, the wind in your hair, and the sense of adventure are all within your reach. But before you can ride off into the sunset, you'll likely need some financial assistance to make that dream bike a reality. - read more
There’s nothing quite like the excitement and sense of freedom that comes with owning a motorcycle. Hitting the open road, feeling the wind rush past you, and experiencing the thrill of two wheels is truly unmatched. - read more
START HERE
Get a free bike loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored
specifically to your circumstances.
Knowledgebase
Mortgage Broker: A person or company that acts as an intermediary between borrowers and lenders, but does not lend money directly.
