Is cash still widely used?
Almost never. Australia has one of the world’s highest rates of contactless payment adoption. Tap-and-go (via Visa payWave, Mastercard PayPass, or mobile wallets) is used for virtually everything — including small purchases like coffee. Many businesses no longer accept cash at all.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available but becoming less necessary. The Big 4 bank machines (CBA, ANZ, NAB, Westpac) are the most common.
- Fees are typically $2-5 AUD per withdrawal for foreign cards plus home bank fees
- Use major bank ATMs — independent machines in tourist areas charge higher fees
- Good availability in cities; reasonable even in regional towns
Card acceptance
Excellent. Visa and Mastercard are accepted universally. Contactless is expected at virtually every business. American Express has broad but slightly less universal coverage.
Tips for travelers
- Cards are sufficient for the entire trip — carry minimal cash
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated — 10% for good service
- Australia is expensive — budget accordingly especially in Sydney and Melbourne
- Outback roadhouses increasingly accept cards, but remote areas may still be cash-only