Cash Distribution Framework (Consequential Amendments and Transitional Provisions) Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Thursday 2 July 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading
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2. Tuesday 11 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate centered on the Cash Distribution Framework Bill 2026, which aimed to establish a regulatory framework to ensure cash availability as critical infrastructure for vulnerable groups and during emergencies. Labor members supported the legislation, arguing it empowered the Reserve Bank of Australia and the ACCC to oversee the near-monopoly cash-in-transit sector and address market consolidation. While most speakers endorsed the bill's principles, Kevin Hogan and Andrew Gee moved amendments to express concerns over government delays, bank branch closures, and the need for broader cash acceptance mandates. The discussion highlighted the tension between digital payment trends and financial inclusion, with independents urging stronger protections for cash users.

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3. Wednesday 12 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Consideration in Detail

   The House of Representatives considered amendments to the bill during the consideration in detail stage. Assistant Treasurer Daniel Mulino moved a series of technical amendments to clarify the interaction between interim directions issued by the ACCC and cash-related contractual chain orders. The amendments required the ACCC to have regard to such orders and allowed for consultation with the Fair Work Commission or Fair Work Ombudsman. The amendments were agreed to, and the bill was passed with these changes.

   Outcome: The amendments were agreed to, and the bill, as amended, was agreed to and reported to the House.

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4. Wednesday 12 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading
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5. Wednesday 12 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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6. Wednesday 12 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Reference to Federation Chamber
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7. Wednesday 12 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   Members debated legislation establishing a national framework to regulate cash distribution services and ensure the long-term availability of physical currency in Australia. Government members argued the bills protect consumer choice and support vulnerable populations, while Opposition members supported the measures but criticised the government for delaying action until after a near-collapse of the cash-in-transit sector. The legislation empowered the Reserve Bank of Australia to designate critical entities and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to oversee service standards, with amendments introduced to clarify interactions with Fair Work Commission orders. Both sides acknowledged the necessity of the bills for economic inclusion, despite differing views on the timing of the government's response.

   Outcome: The bills were commended to the House by the government members.

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8. Monday 17 August 2026 · Senate

   First Reading
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9. Monday 17 August 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated legislation to regulate Australia's cash distribution system, addressing market concentration following the merger of Armaguard and Prosegur. The government argued the bills ensure cash availability for regional communities and during emergencies by granting oversight powers to the Reserve Bank and ACCC. Opposition and crossbench members supported the regulatory framework but criticised the government for delaying action until the expiry of previous ACCC undertakings. Concerns were raised regarding the adequacy of cash acceptance mandates, the closure of bank branches, and the potential for taxpayer-funded bailouts.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned and resumed at a later hour.

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10. Thursday 20 August 2026 · Senate

    Limitation of Debate
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