Contactless Revolution: The Decline of Cash Among Tradies

6

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

Graham Tomkinson, a Western Australian tradie, typifies the shift away from paper money. "Nowadays, nobody pays with cash," he says. Tomkinson has not used cash both in his professional and personal life, a stark contrast to his earlier years when he would carry pocket money.

"I keep my wallet in the car simply to store my Medicare card and tool receipts. If someone stole it, I'd just need to re-register for another Medicare card," explains Tomkinson. This casual approach highlights the diminished presence of cash in his life.

Harrison Lockyer, a 20-year-old mechanic, seconds Tomkinson's experience: "EFTPOS is ubiquitous now. The only time I keep cash is for buying car parts or in case our EFTPOS network fails."

Steven Sousamlis, a builder who operates a bathroom renovation business in Sydney, believes the move towards a cashless society is inevitable. "It's increasingly rare for stores to prefer cash. Obtaining cash from banks feels more tiresome, almost like an inquisition," says Sousamlis. "With ATMs becoming rarer, carrying cash is more of a hassle than it’s worth nowadays."

Phil Cooksey, currently a general manager at Apprentices Are Us LTD and former tradie, vividly remembers when cash ruled the trades industry from 2002 to 2018. "We used to prefer cash. It simplified transactions and often meant work could be done more cheaply. Handling cash was an everyday occurrence," he recounts.

Cooksey is critical of how the decline of cash impacts the perceived value of money. According to him, a $50 note used to be worth $50 throughout, whereas now every card transaction chips away a small percentage. "Each bank fee diminishes the total transaction value," he laments.

Besides the practical shifts, there's a sentiment shared by Graham Cooke, head of consumer research at Finder, suggesting that "cash is dead.” Finder's research shows that ATM usage has been plummeting since 2008 and could disappear entirely by 2030 if the current trajectory continues.

This evolution towards a cashless economy, though gradual, exemplifies how technology and convenience are driving significant shifts in traditional practices, even for cash-dependent professions like trades.

Published:Saturday, 7th Sep 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

EU's Strategic Investment in Australian Critical Minerals

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

The European Union (EU) is set to make direct investments in Australian critical minerals projects, aiming to secure essential resources vital for industries such as artificial intelligence (AI) and defence. This strategic move follows discussions between EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic and Australian Resources Minister Madeleine King, highlighting the EU's commitment to diversifying its supply chains and reducing reliance on unstable external sources. - read more

Strengthening Pacific Ties: The Nakamal Agreement

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to bolster regional partnerships, Australia and Vanuatu have signed the Nakamal Agreement, a $325 million bilateral treaty aimed at enhancing economic, security, and cultural cooperation. Named after Vanuatu's traditional communal meeting place, the 'nakamal,' this agreement underscores the deepening ties between the two nations. - read more

South Australia's Marine Ecosystem Under Threat

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

Since March 2025, South Australia has been grappling with a harmful algal bloom (HAB) that has significantly impacted marine life, local industries, and public health. The bloom has affected vast coastal areas, leading to mass fish kills and posing challenges for the fishing and aquaculture sectors, as well as tourism and beachgoers. - read more

ASIC Advocates for Stronger Oversight in Private Lending

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently highlighted the necessity for enhanced regulatory measures within the nation's private lending sector. This call to action stems from findings that reveal inconsistencies and potential risks that could adversely affect both investors and borrowers. - read more

Australian SMEs Increasingly Opt for Non-Bank Lenders

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent data indicates a significant shift in the financing preferences of Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a growing number opting for non-bank lenders over traditional banking institutions. This trend underscores the evolving needs and challenges faced by SMEs in the current economic climate. - read more

Click for more Finance News