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.
MotorCycle Holdings Limited (ASX: MTO), Australia's largest motorcycle retailer, has announced a record sales revenue of $650 million for the financial year 2025, marking an 11.6% increase from the previous year. This achievement comes despite a general softening in the national motorcycle market. - read more
Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM AG has successfully secured €600 million in funding, enabling the company to fulfill its debt obligations and complete its restructuring plan. This development is particularly significant for Australian riders and dealers who rely on KTM's presence in the market. - read more
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
Welcome to our guide on how to choose the best motorcycle for your lifestyle and budget! Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the world of motorcycles, making the right choice can significantly impact your riding experience and financial wellbeing. - read more
With the advent of technology, purchasing a motorcycle online has become an increasingly popular choice for Australians looking to hit the open road. Online bike marketplaces are booming, providing riders with unparalleled access to a broad array of options right from their digital devices. Convenience is at the forefront of this digital revolution; you can now browse, compare, and research bikes from the comfort of your home. - 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
Debt Consolidation: Debt consolidation usually involves negotiating a new loan to pay other existing loans in order to get more favourable interest rates and terms.
