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Australians Encouraged to Withdraw Cash Next Week: Understanding the ‘Use it or Lose it’ Advisory

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Aussies are being urged to support cash use by withdrawing money from their nearest ATM next Tuesday, as data shows cash use is rising across Australia.
Recent data released by the Reserve Bank of Australia showed that after years of decline, the rate of cash use had stabilised across the country in 2025, with around 15 per cent of all payments using cash, and half of all Aussies still using cash at least once a week.

A recent study reveals that older Australians and those from lower-income households are more inclined to use cash. However, the majority of Australians tend to keep some cash on hand, averaging around $65, primarily for emergencies.

GEN23, Generic, cash payments, shopping, cost of living,  wages, withdrawal, atm, armaguard, groceries, in Sydney on April 1, 2024.
RBA data shows cash use has risen in the last three years. (Dominic Lorrimer)
“The ability to use cash remains highly valued by many Australians,” the RBA study said.

Despite the growing preference for digital transactions, a significant number of Australians still depend on cash. Recognizing this, the federal government implemented a mandate in January requiring businesses to accept cash for essential transactions.

In an effort to further encourage cash usage, Australians are being called to participate in Cash Out Day, set for next Tuesday, April 28th, by withdrawing money from their nearest ATMs.

This is designed to show cash still enjoys support from the community, but also highlights bank closures in parts of the country, especially in regional areas.
Aussies are being urged to take cash out next Tuesday. (Nine)

Chris Grice, CEO of the National Seniors Association, emphasized that Cash Out Day aims to highlight the critical importance of easy cash access, particularly for older Australians and those living in regional communities.

“The Reserve Bank of Australia’s survey indicates that cash remains the predominant method of payment for individuals over 65, those with lower incomes, and residents of regional areas,” Grice noted.

“Our mantra… has been to ‘use it or lose it’.

“Cash users across the country should feel validated by the news that proves cash still has a solid place in the economy.”

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