More than 700 travel professionals joined an Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) webinar on credit card surcharging changes, marking the organisation’s largest turnout on record and underlining widespread concern ahead of the new rules.
The session focused on the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) upcoming surcharge ban, set to begin on 1 October 2026, and what it means for travel businesses.
Attendees were given a clear breakdown of the changes, alongside practical steps to prepare in the months ahead.
The webinar also explored alternative pricing models and payment options to help agencies manage costs without eroding margins.
Key takeaways included expectations of increased card usage, the need to review pricing structures, and the importance of early preparation.
“This is the largest webinar ATIA has ever delivered, and it underscores just how significant these changes are for our members,” ATIA CEO Dean Long said.
“The proposed ban on surcharging represents a major shift in how travel businesses operate. It places a very real financial and operational burden not only on travel agents and tour operators, but ultimately on consumers as well, as businesses look for ways to absorb or redistribute these costs.”
“ATIA is committed to ensuring our members are equipped with the insights, tools and support they need to navigate this transition.”
Mint Payments, which partnered on the session, shared insights from similar reforms in the UK and outlined tools designed to support transition, including service fees and digital payment methods.
“Over 95 per cent of travel businesses currently rely on surcharging, so this is a significant and far-reaching change for the industry,” Mint Payments CEO Alex Teoh said.
“The biggest concerns we’re hearing are around the impact on margins, as well as the added complexity it creates in managing payment workflows and cost transparency.
“Travel businesses should be working closely with their payment providers now to understand customer payment behaviours, explore lower-cost alternatives and implement the right pricing and operational strategies ahead of October.
“With the right approach, including the use of alternative payment methods and more efficient workflows, businesses can minimise the impact and protect their profitability.”
The webinar will be made available to members who missed it.
KARRYON UNPACKS: This turnout says it all. The surcharge ban isn’t a minor tweak, it’s a structural shift, and those who rethink pricing early will be far better placed to protect margins.
