The Hon. Jim Chalmers, Treasurer of Australia; The Hon. Dr Daniel Mulino, Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, Joint Media Release, 2 July 2026

The Albanese Government has today [2 July 2026] introduced legislation to help secure the sustainable distribution of cash in Australia.

This is about strengthening the cash distribution system, which is essential for the many Australians and businesses that rely on cash.    

The Cash Distribution Framework Bill 2026 introduces a regulatory framework to ensure the sector serves the public interest and is on a sustainable footing. 

As cash use declines, the sector has become more concentrated and costly to operate and we’re making sure the system continues to function in the public interest.  

This Bill provides additional certainty that cash will be delivered and collected around Australia, so businesses have cash in tills, ATMs are stocked with cash and consumers can use cash at the check-out.   

Our legislation builds on our changes that make it mandatory for fuel and grocery retailers to accept cash, so Australians can continue to pay cash for essentials if they want to, including in regional and remote communities. 

The cash distribution framework will establish: 

• a mechanism for the ACCC to oversee these critical services through fair, reasonable and transparent standard terms, and to set up service?level standards that support access to cash for all Australians 
• crisis preparedness and resolution powers to protect continuity of critical services 
• requirements for designated providers to negotiate with customers in good faith. 

The Government will ensure that if inconsistencies arise between requirements of the Fair Work Commission and the ACCC under this framework, Fair Work Commission requirements will be appropriately protected. 

We’re ensuring Australia’s payments system is resilient, fair and works in the interests of everyday Australians.? 

The framework has been informed by recommendations from the Council of Financial Regulators and the ACCC, and consultation with industry and community stakeholders.

Related stories: Cash; cash mandate.