Is Australia cashless?
Go cashless#6 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #1 of 14 in Oceania
Short answer: Tap your card or phone for everything, including transport. You will rarely need cash, and most ATMs charge foreign cards a fee.
Australia is one of the world's most contactless countries. Cards work everywhere, often with a small surcharge of 1-2%.
Will my card work?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in Australia, and contactless is common.
Do I need cash?
Rarely. You can get by in Australia with a card or phone almost everywhere.
Local currency: Australian dollar (AUD)
How does tipping work?
Not expected. Around 10% for great service at nicer restaurants.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Getting cash: ATMs
Expect a fee at every ATM
Most ATMs charge foreign cards AUD 2-7.50 per withdrawal.
Cheapest options
- Westpac (free only for Global ATM Alliance cards, such as Bank of America, Barclays, BNP Paribas, Deutsche Bank and Scotiabank)
Your own bank may charge extra. When an ATM offers to convert to your home currency, decline and pay in the local currency.
Good to know
- Tap your card or phone on public transport in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Frequently asked questions
Is Australia cashless?
Australia scores 92/100 on Cashlessy (go cashless), ranking #6 of 197 countries. Australia is one of the world's most contactless countries. Cards work everywhere, often with a small surcharge of 1-2%.
Do I need cash in Australia?
Rarely. You can get by in Australia with a card or phone almost everywhere.
Are credit cards accepted in Australia?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in Australia, and contactless is common.
Do you tip in Australia?
Not expected. Around 10% for great service at nicer restaurants.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Australia?
Yes. Phone wallets work at most terminals that accept contactless cards in Australia.
Which ATMs are free in Australia?
Most ATMs charge foreign cards AUD 2-7.50 per withdrawal. Best options: Westpac (free only for Global ATM Alliance cards, such as Bank of America, Barclays, BNP Paribas, Deutsche Bank and Scotiabank).
Compare with Oceania
Sources
Checked against sources in September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.