28/09/2026
We need to have a little chat about the changes coming into effect on October 1st around card surcharges.
For some small businesses, these changes are going to have a pretty significant impact. For me, thankfully, they won’t.
For the last 9 years, I’ve absorbed my card processing fees. That was a choice I made when I started my business, and one I’ve always been happy to make. I never wanted to spend hours working on your dog, creating a groom I’m proud of, giving you and your dog the best experience I possibly can, and then have the last part of your interaction with me be an extra fee because you paid by card.
I’ve always believed that my business expenses are my responsibility. They’re part of running a business, and I don’t believe they should become my clients’ problem.
So, despite the changes coming in October, nothing is changing here. My prices aren’t increasing because of this, EFTPOS isn’t going anywhere and I’m not suddenly going to start charging you more because you tapped your card at my salon.
But I do want to say something for the small businesses who are going to feel this.
If you’re disappointed by these changes, and you genuinely want to support the small businesses in your life, have a think about how you’re paying them.
Cash is king. PayID and Osko are instant. And avoiding unnecessary card processing fees where you can is a really easy way to put a little bit more money directly back into the hands of the business you’re trying to support.
It might seem insignificant when you’re paying for one coffee, one appointment or one service, but those little fees add up very quickly when you’re running a small business.
I’ll continue doing things the way I have for the past 9 years, because it’s what works for my business and what I believe is fair for my clients.
But if you have a favourite small business that you’d be absolutely devastated to lose, maybe chuck some cash in your wallet again.
They’ll probably appreciate it more than you realise 💕