Donnybrook-Balingup Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DBCCI) advocates for preserving cash payment options in our community
The Donnybrook-Balingup Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DBCCI) has recently conducted an online survey of local businesses regarding cash usage, revealing that cash remains a crucial component of our regional economy. The findings highlight why maintaining cash as a payment option is essential for the resilience and sustainability of our local business community.
Our survey found that 100% of respondents continue to accept cash payments, with businesses reporting that between 15% to 50% of their transactions are still conducted in cash. One survey respondant noted, “Cash helps to keep the whole amount to the business, not just a percentage of the amount,” highlighting the impact of electronic payment processing fees on small business margins.
The importance of cash becomes particularly evident during the infrastructure challenges faced by regional communities. Several businesses reported significant disruptions due to internet outages and power failures. As one respondent shared, “Internet disruption is common in rural Australia,” while another mentioned, “I run a small business where I do a lot of stalls at markets, so if the internet fails, it definitely impacts my sales.” Maintaining cash as an option provides essential business continuity during these disruptions.
DBCCI President Iain Massey emphasises “Cash continues to play an important role for Donnybrook Balingup businesses, with many reporting that 15-50% of their transactions are still made in cash. Our Chamber supports businesses maintaining cash as a payment option, especially given our rural area’s internet challenges, its value for local markets and events, and reduced transaction costs with many of our businesses being family run. We’re committed to supporting all payment choices that help our local businesses thrive.”
Our regional community, with its older-than-average population and lower-than-average income, includes many residents who rely on cash for everyday transactions. This aligns with the latest Reserve Bank of Australia survey from November 2024, which confirms that lower income earners, older Australians, and those in regional areas are among the most frequent cash users.
Beyond practical considerations, cash plays a vital role in our community’s character and operations. Survey respondents highlighted its importance for fundraisers, small businesses during local markets and festivals where the internet service has failed when there has been in increase in population and noted that these activities could become a thing of the past. Others emphasised how cash supports community clubs and not for profits that cannot afford internet banking.
The DBCCI is committed to supporting payment choice and understanding how payment preferences impact local businesses. This matter was presented to the committee to develop a position regarding cash in the community, involving a survey of members and the wider business community before the statement was developed and will then be accepted by the committee. We welcome further feedback as we continue to support our regional economy and preserve the unique character of the Donnybrook-Balingup community.
DBCCI Cash Statement
Have Your Say
We value your input on this important issue. Please complete our short survey about cash usage in your business:
For Further Information
For more information about this initiative or to share your experiences with cash payments in your business, please contact:
Donnybrook-Balingup Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Email: secretary@dbchamber.com.au
Phone: 0499 018 105
Website: www.dbchamber.com
