People power preserves cash!

As the CEO of National Seniors Australia (NSA), I want to take a moment to thank everyone for playing a role in the success of our Keep Cash movement. This initiative, which led to the Federal Government’s decision to propose a mandate that businesses accept cash for essential purchases like food, fuel, and medicine, is a victory for all Australians, particularly seniors, who value the choice and security cash provides. While this is now on the government agenda, there still is work to be done and we now need your help more than ever. Thank you for acknowledging this as the very important issue it is.

First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our many members across the country. Your feedback has been instrumental in championing this important initiative. Whether you take part in a photoshoot, participate in media interviews, share our social posts, distribute ‘We accept CASH’ stickers to retailers, or simply choose to use cash – your efforts are making a difference!

We also extend our gratitude to Treasurer Jim Chalmers and the Federal Government for listening to our concerns and taking decisive action. The proposal to mandate cash acceptance for essential items is a game-changer for senior Australians. Your acknowledgment of the 1.5 million Australians who rely heavily on cash reflects a commitment to inclusivity and fairness.

Special thanks go to Federal MP Bob Katter, co-chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Seniors, whose advocacy and real-world example at Parliament House brought national attention to the issue.

Your enthusiasm and commitment brought life to the Keep Cash campaign. You actively engaged with local businesses, encouraged them to display our ‘We Accept Cash’ stickers, and spread the word about the importance of keeping cash accessible.

The photos you send in of businesses proudly supporting the movement are not only inspiring but showcase the power of community working together. You are the foundation of this successful movement, and I am deeply thankful for your unwavering support.

To the wider community, your voices have been instrumental. Many of you shared your stories, raised concerns, and stood up for the importance of cash in our daily lives. This movement resonated because of your shared belief in the value of choice, security, and digital inclusion. Together, we demonstrate the collective strength of everyday Australians who want fairness and inclusivity.

From Nine News, 7News, and other television networks; countless newspapers; radio stations; even international platforms, your coverage helped raise awareness about the challenges many seniors face with the decline of cash services. Thank you for your support which ensures that this critical issue reaches the ears of decision-makers and the broader public.

To the retailers and businesses who display our ‘Keep Cash’ and ‘We Accept Cash’ stickers—thank you for standing with us and seniors on this important issue. Your willingness to support this initiative shows your commitment to serving all members of your communities. By embracing cash as a valid payment method, you not only support seniors but also reinforce the importance of choice for all Australians.

While we celebrate this milestone, our work is not done. National Seniors will contribute to the consultation on which businesses supplying essential goods and services should be covered by the mandate, due to be released before the end of this year. As the mandate applies only to essential items, we will continue to advocate for cash accessibility so that seniors continue to have access to this payment method. In the meantime, we need you to keep using cash! Beyond that, NSA is also committed to helping seniors adapt to the growing digital economy through initiatives like Keep SAFE, which will empower older Australians with the knowledge and skills to navigate the online world safely and help them to avoid online scams. You can click here to access our Keep SAFE downloadable resources to help you keep safe online.

Together, we are achieving something remarkable. Thank you for being part of this journey as we defend, protect, and promote the rights and interests of older Australians.

Warm Regards,

Chris Grice 

CEO, National Seniors Australia

Hear our CEO personally thank all involved to Keep Cash accessible and accepted.