Preparing for the card surcharge ban
From 1 October 2026, card surcharges will be banned in Australia. Builders, contractors and suppliers must update their pricing, contracts and payment systems before the deadline.
1 October 2026 is the deadline for businesses to comply with the card surcharge ban across Australia.
How do I prepare my trade business for the card surcharge ban starting October 2026?
Affects builders, plumbers, electricians and all trade contractors who currently pass card fees to customers. They must absorb or restructure costs before October 2026.
Key takeaways
- Card surcharges will be banned from 1 October 2026, affecting how tradies charge customers.
- Builders, contractors and suppliers need to review and update their pricing structures.
- Existing contracts may need to be amended to remove surcharge clauses before the ban.
- Payment systems should be audited and reconfigured ahead of the October 2026 deadline.
Related
Minimum tax on discretionary trusts
The Housing Industry Association has come out against a proposed minimum tax on discretionary trusts and the related Excluded Election Trust regime. No further detail on the policy mechanics is provided in the article.
Why it matters: Builders and trade contractors who operate through discretionary trusts could face higher tax bills if this policy proceeds, affecting business structure decisions.
Advancing the industry's case in Canberra
HIA held a major advocacy week in Canberra covering workforce, taxation and migration policy. Members were brought directly into discussions with political leaders on key industry issues.
Why it matters: Builders and associated trades could see changes to workforce supply, tax settings and migration rules that directly affect hiring and business costs.
Inquiry into the financial and operational performance of TasWater
HIA's Tasmanian Executive Director Benjamin Price addressed the Public Accounts Committee regarding TasWater's financial and operational performance. The statement covers issues relevant to the water utility's impact on the building and construction industry in Tasmania.
Why it matters: Builders and plumbers in Tasmania may be affected by TasWater's performance, including connection delays, infrastructure capacity, and cost impacts on new developments.