Australian Payments Plus (AP+) has confirmed that a zero-surcharge limit will apply to eftpos transactions from 1 October 2026.
The change aligns with the RBA’s broader review of merchant card payment costs and surcharging[1]. and upcoming surcharge ban.
AP+ has notified eftpos acquiring members ahead of implementation in October 2026. Existing surcharging rules remain in place until that date.
Supporting competition in debit payments
As Australia’s domestic debit network, eftpos continues to support strong competition in debit payments, including through least-cost routing (LCR).
Most debit cards in Australia can be processed through more than one network. When LCR is enabled, businesses can choose the lowest-cost network, helping keep payment costs down.
The RBA has long supported broader availability of LCR to promote competition. RBA data shows the cost of accepting debit card transaction is nearly 20% lower for businesses with LCR switched on[2].
eftpos also remains focused on lowering the cost of payments in Australia and has reduced its fees multiple times in recent years[3].
Merchants seeking information about how the changes impact their business should speak with their bank or payment service provider.
[1] AP+ welcomes RBA decision on debit surcharging.
[2] The Effect of Least-cost Routing on Merchant Payment Costs | Bulletin, RBA April 2024.
[3] AP+ lowers eftpos scheme fees in ongoing commitment to lowering cost of payments - Australian Payments Plus
