Cash Distribution Framework Bill 2026, Cash Distribution Framework (Consequential Amendments and Transitional Provisions) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Sharkie supported the bill, arguing that cash remains vital for older Australians and those in regional communities, particularly during natural disasters or power outages. Sharkie cited the Australian Digital Inclusion Index 2025, noting high digital exclusion rates among seniors and First Nations people. Sharkie welcomed the bill's provisions for the Reserve Bank to designate entities like Armaguard and for the ACCC to oversee pricing, stating this would protect communities from the impacts of bank branch closures.

Clutterham argued that the bill protects consumer choice and ensures no one is excluded from the marketplace due to digital exclusion or scams. Clutterham shared an anecdote about an elderly constituent who stopped using digital banking after being scammed, highlighting the need for cash as a trusted alternative. Clutterham outlined the bill's three key elements: Reserve Bank designation powers, ACCC oversight of pricing, and crisis resolution powers including up to $400 million in funding support. Clutterham emphasised that cash provides dignity and control during emergencies.

Le supported the bill's objective but called for close monitoring of accountability and compliance costs. Le warned that significant regulatory powers must be matched by transparency and meaningful consultation with affected businesses. Le argued that the framework must serve culturally diverse metropolitan communities like Fowler, not just regional areas, and urged regulators to measure cash access in ways that identify communities with limited digital confidence. Le also noted that the existing cash acceptance mandate was limited, exempting small businesses with turnover below $10 million.

Campbell stated that the bill ensures Australians can access cash for as long as they choose, supporting financial inclusion for seniors, low-income earners, and regional residents. Campbell explained that the framework provides regulatory oversight to ensure transparency and sustainability in the cash distribution network. Campbell highlighted the crisis management provisions, which allow the Reserve Bank to intervene if a critical provider fails, including appointing statutory managers or transferring assets. Campbell argued the bill complements the cash acceptance mandate and supports the viability of regional banking services.

Gee argued that the bill failed to go far enough to protect cash use, describing the government's cash acceptance mandate as flawed and ineffective. Gee moved an amendment calling for a mandatory cash acceptance requirement for face-to-face transactions up to $10,000, referencing his own Keeping Cash Transactions in Australia Bill. Gee expressed concern that corporations were deliberately phasing out cash and that the current mandate created only 'cash islands' at supermarkets and fuel retailers. Gee urged the government to adopt a stronger mandate to ensure cash remained a viable payment method for all Australians.

Georganas supported the bill, noting that cash remains a trusted payment method for many Australians, especially during system outages or natural disasters. Georganas criticised the closure of bank branches and ATMs, arguing that banks were prioritising cost savings over community service. Georganas shared a story of a small business owner who struggled to access cash after her local branch closed, highlighting the practical difficulties faced by businesses. Georganas emphasised that the bill provides necessary regulatory tools to protect access to cash and ensure the sustainability of the distribution system.

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Burnell argued that the legislation protects the resilience of the payment system and ensures choice at the checkout. Burnell described cash distribution as unofficial national infrastructure that requires oversight due to the near-monopoly status of current providers. The bill establishes shared regulatory roles for the ACCC and the Reserve Bank of Australia to manage commercial arrangements and crisis readiness. Burnell stated that the framework ensures businesses can access cash at reasonable costs, supporting the government's broader commitment to inclusion.

Mascarenhas agreed that cash is essential infrastructure, noting that one in ten Australians rely on it for major purchases. Mascarenhas highlighted the risks of market consolidation, which has reduced ATM availability in regional areas, and praised the bill's powers for regulators to enforce fair terms. Mascarenhas emphasised the role of cash in emergencies and social interactions, stating the framework prevents vulnerable groups from losing access due to commercial pressures.

Jarrett argued that cash remains vital for budgeting, privacy, and resilience during technological failures or natural disasters. Jarrett referenced recent telecommunications outages to illustrate the importance of having a non-digital payment backup. Jarrett stated that the government's approach balances technological progress with the need to support older Australians, regional communities, and those escaping abuse.