Insights

Cash Distribution Framework Act 2026: new regulation for Australia’s cash

Date published 1 September 2026
Read time TBC
Banks, retailers and ATM operators depend on cash transport, processing and management services to maintain access to cash. Rates of cash use are collapsing, placing the sector in structural decline with service providers in the industry under pressure (such as Armaguard which has received $100 million in funding support from major banking and retail customers over several years to maintain continuity). Against that challenged backdrop, Australia’s new Cash Distribution Framework Act seeks to establish regulatory guardrails for fair and transparent contracting, continuity and crisis management for cash distribution services.

Related sectors

Financial Services

Related services

Restructuring Advisory Competition, Consumer and Market Regulation Financial Services Regulation

Key takeaways

  • Designated cash distribution services providers must negotiate cash service and access agreements in good faith and in the context of ACCC-approved terms, a statutory arbitration pathway and regulated service-level standards.
  • Secured creditors of designated entities face additional stays, moratoria and suspensions of termination rights.
  • The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) can appoint a statutory manager to, or compulsorily transfer the business in or shares of, a designated entity.
  • A 24-month transition period, beginning when the consequential and transitional legislation commences, gives the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) power to issue interim directions on pricing and service terms while the broader framework is implemented.