Ampol's cashless expansion strains retailers caught between profit and mandate

Ampol has secured a five-year exemption from the nation's cash mandate to expand its cashless U-Go network significantly, a move that has provoked criticism from consumer advocates and sparked fresh debate about financial inclusion in Australian retail. According to perthnow.com.au, the company plans to triple its cashless sites despite the government's push to preserve cash payment options for citizens without access to digital banking.

For Perth commuters and truck drivers reliant on fuel stops along major transport corridors, the expansion of cashless-only sites could create practical barriers, particularly in regional areas where banking infrastructure remains sparse. Small independent service stations across Perth and WA, which have absorbed the cost of maintaining card payment systems, may face further competitive pressure if major operators are permitted to sidestep the cash mandate that was designed to level the playing field.

The exemption raises questions about how such mandates are enforced and why major corporations can sidestep policy intent through regulatory carve-outs. Perth's small business community and consumer advocates may push WA government bodies to review fuel retailer compliance and argue for stricter adherence to cash access commitments in licensing and franchise agreements.

Sources: perthnow.com.au.

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