From the healthcare industry to communication and even grocery shopping, digitalisation has become increasingly prevalent.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we closely monitor a notable development: the banking industry's rapid transition towards a cashless society.

As our world increasingly relies on digital technologies, there is a growing movement within the banking industry to reduce the reliance on physical cash.

However, it's important to consider the perspectives of individuals who may find this shift challenging.

The shift towards a cashless society has created significant challenges for those who rely on cash as their primary form of payment, such as the unbanked and elderly populations, exacerbating financial exclusion and limiting their access to essential goods and services. Image by naipo_de from Unsplash

Chris Grice, the Chief Operating Officer at National Seniors Australia, recently expressed concerns about the increasing push to discourage cash usage.

‘The feedback we're getting it is not as easy as, you know, just tap and go and away you go,’ he said.

Tap-and-go payments may seem convenient for some, but they present an unwelcome challenge for others, particularly when internet connectivity is sporadic, as is often the case in rural Australia.

The cost associated with digital transactions further exacerbates the situation.

Adding fuel to the fire, there have been reports suggesting that the Commonwealth Bank has been increasing its 'cashless' branches, a move that has been met with apprehension by older citizens who find comfort in the tangibility of cash transactions.

The digital divide and technological barriers further widen the gap, making it clear that the transition to a cashless society is far from inclusive and raises concerns about leaving vulnerable communities behind. Image from Flickr

Given these rattling reports, a spokesperson from the Commonwealth Bank issued a full statement:

They stated, ‘Cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all Commonwealth Bank branches and Specialist Centres.’

The Commonwealth Bank has created Specialist Centres in major metropolitan areas to provide personalised support for customers with more complex banking needs.

They added, ‘These Specialist Centres provide customers with face-to-face access to specialist home and business lenders and also offer the latest self-service technologies. All of our Specialist Centres are in major metropolitan locations and very nearby to full-service branches.’

‘We continue to maintain Australia's largest branch network for customers.’

Key Takeaways

• There are concerns that some Australians could be disadvantaged as the banking industry shifts towards digital transactions.
  
• National Seniors Australia's Chief Operating Officer has mentioned challenges around internet access in regional communities and the difficulties some face adapting to 'tap and go' transactions.
  
• Commonwealth Bank has reportedly increased the number of 'cashless' branches, raising concerns about increased transaction fees at ATMs and the loss of cash services for older Australians.
  
• In response, a Commonwealth Bank spokesperson clarified that cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all branches and Specialist Centres and have the largest branch network for customers in Australia.

In light of this, we must ask ourselves: Do these Specialist Centres do enough to bridge the digital divide for our citizens?

Navigating the digital world can be overwhelming for those accustomed to traditional banking methods.

While technological progress is inevitable and often beneficial, it is crucial to balance embracing advancements and ensuring inclusion for all.

Amid the efforts to move towards a cashless society, honouring those with differing preferences regarding handling money is also important.

Members, what are your thoughts on the increasing shift towards digital payments and the potential impact on individuals who may face challenges with this transition? Do you believe enough is being done to support you in the digital banking landscape?

 

[Mumoftwo44]

From the healthcare industry to communication and even grocery shopping, digitalisation has become increasingly prevalent.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we closely monitor a notable development: the banking industry's rapid transition towards a cashless society.

As our world increasingly relies on digital technologies, there is a growing movement within the banking industry to reduce the reliance on physical cash.

However, it's important to consider the perspectives of individuals who may find this shift challenging.

View attachment 25551

The shift towards a cashless society has created significant challenges for those who rely on cash as their primary form of payment, such as the unbanked and elderly populations, exacerbating financial exclusion and limiting their access to essential goods and services. Image by naipo_de from Unsplash

Chris Grice, the Chief Operating Officer at National Seniors Australia, recently expressed concerns about the increasing push to discourage cash usage.

‘The feedback we're getting it is not as easy as, you know, just tap and go and away you go,’ he said.

Tap-and-go payments may seem convenient for some, but they present an unwelcome challenge for others, particularly when internet connectivity is sporadic, as is often the case in rural Australia.

The cost associated with digital transactions further exacerbates the situation.

Adding fuel to the fire, there have been reports suggesting that the Commonwealth Bank has been increasing its 'cashless' branches, a move that has been met with apprehension by older citizens who find comfort in the tangibility of cash transactions.

View attachment 25552

The digital divide and technological barriers further widen the gap, making it clear that the transition to a cashless society is far from inclusive and raises concerns about leaving vulnerable communities behind. Image from Flickr

Given these rattling reports, a spokesperson from the Commonwealth Bank issued a full statement:

They stated, ‘Cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all Commonwealth Bank branches and Specialist Centres.’

The Commonwealth Bank has created Specialist Centres in major metropolitan areas to provide personalised support for customers with more complex banking needs.

They added, ‘These Specialist Centres provide customers with face-to-face access to specialist home and business lenders and also offer the latest self-service technologies. All of our Specialist Centres are in major metropolitan locations and very nearby to full-service branches.’

‘We continue to maintain Australia's largest branch network for customers.’

Key Takeaways

• There are concerns that some Australians could be disadvantaged as the banking industry shifts towards digital transactions.
• National Seniors Australia's Chief Operating Officer has mentioned challenges around internet access in regional communities and the difficulties some face adapting to 'tap and go' transactions.
• Commonwealth Bank has reportedly increased the number of 'cashless' branches, raising concerns about increased transaction fees at ATMs and the loss of cash services for older Australians.
• In response, a Commonwealth Bank spokesperson clarified that cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all branches and Specialist Centres and have the largest branch network for customers in Australia.

In light of this, we must ask ourselves: Do these Specialist Centres do enough to bridge the digital divide for our citizens?

Navigating the digital world can be overwhelming for those accustomed to traditional banking methods.

While technological progress is inevitable and often beneficial, it is crucial to balance embracing advancements and ensuring inclusion for all.

Amid the efforts to move towards a cashless society, honouring those with differing preferences regarding handling money is also important.

Members, what are your thoughts on the increasing shift towards digital payments and the potential impact on individuals who may face challenges with this transition? Do you believe enough is being done to support you in the digital banking landscape?

The one thing that is depressing is being made to feel stupid for not knowing how to do something. I am trying to transit where possible to the new order of things but am finding that understanding the how to’s can be frustrating. Also a lack of patience from younger generation can be frustrating

 

[Thecheesequeen]

Is it actually legal to refuse to accept cash? Surely it’s still legal tender!

 

[Sherza]

From the healthcare industry to communication and even grocery shopping, digitalisation has become increasingly prevalent.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we closely monitor a notable development: the banking industry's rapid transition towards a cashless society.

As our world increasingly relies on digital technologies, there is a growing movement within the banking industry to reduce the reliance on physical cash.

However, it's important to consider the perspectives of individuals who may find this shift challenging.

View attachment 25551

The shift towards a cashless society has created significant challenges for those who rely on cash as their primary form of payment, such as the unbanked and elderly populations, exacerbating financial exclusion and limiting their access to essential goods and services. Image by naipo_de from Unsplash

Chris Grice, the Chief Operating Officer at National Seniors Australia, recently expressed concerns about the increasing push to discourage cash usage.

‘The feedback we're getting it is not as easy as, you know, just tap and go and away you go,’ he said.

Tap-and-go payments may seem convenient for some, but they present an unwelcome challenge for others, particularly when internet connectivity is sporadic, as is often the case in rural Australia.

The cost associated with digital transactions further exacerbates the situation.

Adding fuel to the fire, there have been reports suggesting that the Commonwealth Bank has been increasing its 'cashless' branches, a move that has been met with apprehension by older citizens who find comfort in the tangibility of cash transactions.

View attachment 25552

The digital divide and technological barriers further widen the gap, making it clear that the transition to a cashless society is far from inclusive and raises concerns about leaving vulnerable communities behind. Image from Flickr

Given these rattling reports, a spokesperson from the Commonwealth Bank issued a full statement:

They stated, ‘Cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all Commonwealth Bank branches and Specialist Centres.’

The Commonwealth Bank has created Specialist Centres in major metropolitan areas to provide personalised support for customers with more complex banking needs.

They added, ‘These Specialist Centres provide customers with face-to-face access to specialist home and business lenders and also offer the latest self-service technologies. All of our Specialist Centres are in major metropolitan locations and very nearby to full-service branches.’

‘We continue to maintain Australia's largest branch network for customers.’

Key Takeaways

• There are concerns that some Australians could be disadvantaged as the banking industry shifts towards digital transactions.
• National Seniors Australia's Chief Operating Officer has mentioned challenges around internet access in regional communities and the difficulties some face adapting to 'tap and go' transactions.
• Commonwealth Bank has reportedly increased the number of 'cashless' branches, raising concerns about increased transaction fees at ATMs and the loss of cash services for older Australians.
• In response, a Commonwealth Bank spokesperson clarified that cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all branches and Specialist Centres and have the largest branch network for customers in Australia.

In light of this, we must ask ourselves: Do these Specialist Centres do enough to bridge the digital divide for our citizens?

Navigating the digital world can be overwhelming for those accustomed to traditional banking methods.

While technological progress is inevitable and often beneficial, it is crucial to balance embracing advancements and ensuring inclusion for all.

Amid the efforts to move towards a cashless society, honouring those with differing preferences regarding handling money is also important.

Members, what are your thoughts on the increasing shift towards digital payments and the potential impact on individuals who may face challenges with this transition? Do you believe enough is being done to support you in the digital banking landscape?

Any time I see a sign like that I walk out and refuse to shop there

 

[lonelyasacloud]

I think all payment options should be available. I personally love “tap n go”. I pay using my smart watch, no need to get anything out of my bag. The watch is protected with a PIN and I can view the transactions. I also carry cash in case the system goes down

 

[Dija]

From the healthcare industry to communication and even grocery shopping, digitalisation has become increasingly prevalent.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we closely monitor a notable development: the banking industry's rapid transition towards a cashless society.

As our world increasingly relies on digital technologies, there is a growing movement within the banking industry to reduce the reliance on physical cash.

However, it's important to consider the perspectives of individuals who may find this shift challenging.

View attachment 25551

The shift towards a cashless society has created significant challenges for those who rely on cash as their primary form of payment, such as the unbanked and elderly populations, exacerbating financial exclusion and limiting their access to essential goods and services. Image by naipo_de from Unsplash

Chris Grice, the Chief Operating Officer at National Seniors Australia, recently expressed concerns about the increasing push to discourage cash usage.

‘The feedback we're getting it is not as easy as, you know, just tap and go and away you go,’ he said.

Tap-and-go payments may seem convenient for some, but they present an unwelcome challenge for others, particularly when internet connectivity is sporadic, as is often the case in rural Australia.

The cost associated with digital transactions further exacerbates the situation.

Adding fuel to the fire, there have been reports suggesting that the Commonwealth Bank has been increasing its 'cashless' branches, a move that has been met with apprehension by older citizens who find comfort in the tangibility of cash transactions.

View attachment 25552

The digital divide and technological barriers further widen the gap, making it clear that the transition to a cashless society is far from inclusive and raises concerns about leaving vulnerable communities behind. Image from Flickr

Given these rattling reports, a spokesperson from the Commonwealth Bank issued a full statement:

They stated, ‘Cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all Commonwealth Bank branches and Specialist Centres.’

The Commonwealth Bank has created Specialist Centres in major metropolitan areas to provide personalised support for customers with more complex banking needs.

They added, ‘These Specialist Centres provide customers with face-to-face access to specialist home and business lenders and also offer the latest self-service technologies. All of our Specialist Centres are in major metropolitan locations and very nearby to full-service branches.’

‘We continue to maintain Australia's largest branch network for customers.’

Key Takeaways

• There are concerns that some Australians could be disadvantaged as the banking industry shifts towards digital transactions.
• National Seniors Australia's Chief Operating Officer has mentioned challenges around internet access in regional communities and the difficulties some face adapting to 'tap and go' transactions.
• Commonwealth Bank has reportedly increased the number of 'cashless' branches, raising concerns about increased transaction fees at ATMs and the loss of cash services for older Australians.
• In response, a Commonwealth Bank spokesperson clarified that cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all branches and Specialist Centres and have the largest branch network for customers in Australia.

In light of this, we must ask ourselves: Do these Specialist Centres do enough to bridge the digital divide for our citizens?

Navigating the digital world can be overwhelming for those accustomed to traditional banking methods.

While technological progress is inevitable and often beneficial, it is crucial to balance embracing advancements and ensuring inclusion for all.

Amid the efforts to move towards a cashless society, honouring those with differing preferences regarding handling money is also important.

Members, what are your thoughts on the increasing shift towards digital payments and the potential impact on individuals who may face challenges with thise o transition? Do you believe enough is being done to support you in the digital banking landscape?

No I don’t think the old people get enough support.

 

[Granny*Deb]

There has also been talk of cheque books becoming a thing of the past as digital is said to be safer. Also passbooks are also in the line of fire Soon maybe choices will be removed from our hands and we will have to migrate to digital. Incredibly hard for some to change a lifetime of habits.

 

[poppyshero]

I use cash only and refuse to shop anywhere that is card only. If i am forced to do internet banking and pay by card, i will buy everything online and cheer if the cashless shops go broke.

 

[Catherines]

We are ageing, technology is catching up & overtaking us.

Do you remember when we only knew about and used manual cars? Now there are mostly automatics. And do you remember there was a time when $5 and below was not accepted on a card? Now most, if not all, places will take less than $5 on your card. We didn't have spacecraft landing on the moon in the 40s, now they are looking into actually living there. IT IS CALLED PROGRESS no matter what we all might call it, no matter who struggles, who succeeds and who does not.

TECHNOLOGY is not new but it does tend to puzzle the older members of our society (including me sometimes at 78). There are a lot of things I still struggle with with regard to technology so I ask my children 48, 52 & 55 for assistance. We won't all be here in say, 20-40 years' time, so the current generation of 30s, 40s, 50s will advance but they will also struggle to a point when in their 60s and beyond and they too will get caught out by newer technology.

Cashless purchases can be annoying but it is up to each of us to TRY and progress as best we can or at least always have a small amount of cash on hand for a coffee or snack if we encounter a "card only, no cash" situation. We cannot stop technology no matter how hard we try and how much we whinge.

 

[m.m .vic]

From the healthcare industry to communication and even grocery shopping, digitalisation has become increasingly prevalent.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we closely monitor a notable development: the banking industry's rapid transition towards a cashless society.

As our world increasingly relies on digital technologies, there is a growing movement within the banking industry to reduce the reliance on physical cash.

However, it's important to consider the perspectives of individuals who may find this shift challenging.

View attachment 25551

The shift towards a cashless society has created significant challenges for those who rely on cash as their primary form of payment, such as the unbanked and elderly populations, exacerbating financial exclusion and limiting their access to essential goods and services. Image by naipo_de from Unsplash

Chris Grice, the Chief Operating Officer at National Seniors Australia, recently expressed concerns about the increasing push to discourage cash usage.

‘The feedback we're getting it is not as easy as, you know, just tap and go and away you go,’ he said.

Tap-and-go payments may seem convenient for some, but they present an unwelcome challenge for others, particularly when internet connectivity is sporadic, as is often the case in rural Australia.

The cost associated with digital transactions further exacerbates the situation.

Adding fuel to the fire, there have been reports suggesting that the Commonwealth Bank has been increasing its 'cashless' branches, a move that has been met with apprehension by older citizens who find comfort in the tangibility of cash transactions.

View attachment 25552

The digital divide and technological barriers further widen the gap, making it clear that the transition to a cashless society is far from inclusive and raises concerns about leaving vulnerable communities behind. Image from Flickr

Given these rattling reports, a spokesperson from the Commonwealth Bank issued a full statement:

They stated, ‘Cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all Commonwealth Bank branches and Specialist Centres.’

The Commonwealth Bank has created Specialist Centres in major metropolitan areas to provide personalised support for customers with more complex banking needs.

They added, ‘These Specialist Centres provide customers with face-to-face access to specialist home and business lenders and also offer the latest self-service technologies. All of our Specialist Centres are in major metropolitan locations and very nearby to full-service branches.’

‘We continue to maintain Australia's largest branch network for customers.’

Key Takeaways

• There are concerns that some Australians could be disadvantaged as the banking industry shifts towards digital transactions.
• National Seniors Australia's Chief Operating Officer has mentioned challenges around internet access in regional communities and the difficulties some face adapting to 'tap and go' transactions.
• Commonwealth Bank has reportedly increased the number of 'cashless' branches, raising concerns about increased transaction fees at ATMs and the loss of cash services for older Australians.
• In response, a Commonwealth Bank spokesperson clarified that cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all branches and Specialist Centres and have the largest branch network for customers in Australia.

In light of this, we must ask ourselves: Do these Specialist Centres do enough to bridge the digital divide for our citizens?

Navigating the digital world can be overwhelming for those accustomed to traditional banking methods.

While technological progress is inevitable and often beneficial, it is crucial to balance embracing advancements and ensuring inclusion for all.

Amid the efforts to move towards a cashless society, honouring those with differing preferences regarding handling money is also important.

Members, what are your thoughts on the increasing shift towards digital payments and the potential impact on individuals who may face challenges with this transition? Do you believe enough is being done to support you in the digital banking landscape?

No I don't think they are thinking about the old people or disability. And to pay bills not every one has a computer I don't have one and woulded no how to use one. What happened when computers are down in shop carnt use card but u can use cash.

 

[Catherines]

No I don't think they are thinking about the old people or disability. And to pay bills not every one has a computer I don't have one and woulded no how to use one. What happened when computers are down in shop carnt use card but u can use cash.

May I please ask how you read and responded to this? What device did you use?

 

[Luckyus]

From the healthcare industry to communication and even grocery shopping, digitalisation has become increasingly prevalent.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we closely monitor a notable development: the banking industry's rapid transition towards a cashless society.

As our world increasingly relies on digital technologies, there is a growing movement within the banking industry to reduce the reliance on physical cash.

However, it's important to consider the perspectives of individuals who may find this shift challenging.

View attachment 25551

The shift towards a cashless society has created significant challenges for those who rely on cash as their primary form of payment, such as the unbanked and elderly populations, exacerbating financial exclusion and limiting their access to essential goods and services. Image by naipo_de from Unsplash

Chris Grice, the Chief Operating Officer at National Seniors Australia, recently expressed concerns about the increasing push to discourage cash usage.

‘The feedback we're getting it is not as easy as, you know, just tap and go and away you go,’ he said.

Tap-and-go payments may seem convenient for some, but they present an unwelcome challenge for others, particularly when internet connectivity is sporadic, as is often the case in rural Australia.

The cost associated with digital transactions further exacerbates the situation.

Adding fuel to the fire, there have been reports suggesting that the Commonwealth Bank has been increasing its 'cashless' branches, a move that has been met with apprehension by older citizens who find comfort in the tangibility of cash transactions.

View attachment 25552

The digital divide and technological barriers further widen the gap, making it clear that the transition to a cashless society is far from inclusive and raises concerns about leaving vulnerable communities behind. Image from Flickr

Given these rattling reports, a spokesperson from the Commonwealth Bank issued a full statement:

They stated, ‘Cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all Commonwealth Bank branches and Specialist Centres.’

The Commonwealth Bank has created Specialist Centres in major metropolitan areas to provide personalised support for customers with more complex banking needs.

They added, ‘These Specialist Centres provide customers with face-to-face access to specialist home and business lenders and also offer the latest self-service technologies. All of our Specialist Centres are in major metropolitan locations and very nearby to full-service branches.’

‘We continue to maintain Australia's largest branch network for customers.’

Key Takeaways

• There are concerns that some Australians could be disadvantaged as the banking industry shifts towards digital transactions.
• National Seniors Australia's Chief Operating Officer has mentioned challenges around internet access in regional communities and the difficulties some face adapting to 'tap and go' transactions.
• Commonwealth Bank has reportedly increased the number of 'cashless' branches, raising concerns about increased transaction fees at ATMs and the loss of cash services for older Australians.
• In response, a Commonwealth Bank spokesperson clarified that cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all branches and Specialist Centres and have the largest branch network for customers in Australia.

In light of this, we must ask ourselves: Do these Specialist Centres do enough to bridge the digital divide for our citizens?

Navigating the digital world can be overwhelming for those accustomed to traditional banking methods.

While technological progress is inevitable and often beneficial, it is crucial to balance embracing advancements and ensuring inclusion for all.

Amid the efforts to move towards a cashless society, honouring those with differing preferences regarding handling money is also important.

Members, what are your thoughts on the increasing shift towards digital payments and the potential impact on individuals who may face challenges with this transition? Do you believe enough is being done to support you in the digital banking landscape?

I don't get charged for paying with cash, it's all these bloody idiots paying extra to use a plastic card to pay for a cup of coffee. I only use a card for expensive items, I have no problem with carrying a limited amount of cash.

 

[Barbara V]

I can use digital cash payments,still use cash too but what annoys me is that as some banks upgrade on line banking by upgrading their apps and then I have trouble if new app plays up. Am having that trouble at the moment all works well then a msg comes up saying oops error try again. So now I have to go to a bank to get it fixed which is annoying when old app worked well,that certainly makes things harder.

 

[Suzy Q]

I’ve just started drawing cash out again, it was becoming to easy to tap and go, I’ve found I don’t like parting with cash so much and I’m saving more because of it. But if we do go cashless no point in leaving a Tip Jar by the register when you go to pay like a lot of restaurants do.

 

[Andrew]

From the healthcare industry to communication and even grocery shopping, digitalisation has become increasingly prevalent.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we closely monitor a notable development: the banking industry's rapid transition towards a cashless society.

As our world increasingly relies on digital technologies, there is a growing movement within the banking industry to reduce the reliance on physical cash.

However, it's important to consider the perspectives of individuals who may find this shift challenging.

View attachment 25551

The shift towards a cashless society has created significant challenges for those who rely on cash as their primary form of payment, such as the unbanked and elderly populations, exacerbating financial exclusion and limiting their access to essential goods and services. Image by naipo_de from Unsplash

Chris Grice, the Chief Operating Officer at National Seniors Australia, recently expressed concerns about the increasing push to discourage cash usage.

‘The feedback we're getting it is not as easy as, you know, just tap and go and away you go,’ he said.

Tap-and-go payments may seem convenient for some, but they present an unwelcome challenge for others, particularly when internet connectivity is sporadic, as is often the case in rural Australia.

The cost associated with digital transactions further exacerbates the situation.

Adding fuel to the fire, there have been reports suggesting that the Commonwealth Bank has been increasing its 'cashless' branches, a move that has been met with apprehension by older citizens who find comfort in the tangibility of cash transactions.

View attachment 25552

The digital divide and technological barriers further widen the gap, making it clear that the transition to a cashless society is far from inclusive and raises concerns about leaving vulnerable communities behind. Image from Flickr

Given these rattling reports, a spokesperson from the Commonwealth Bank issued a full statement:

They stated, ‘Cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all Commonwealth Bank branches and Specialist Centres.’

The Commonwealth Bank has created Specialist Centres in major metropolitan areas to provide personalised support for customers with more complex banking needs.

They added, ‘These Specialist Centres provide customers with face-to-face access to specialist home and business lenders and also offer the latest self-service technologies. All of our Specialist Centres are in major metropolitan locations and very nearby to full-service branches.’

‘We continue to maintain Australia's largest branch network for customers.’

Key Takeaways

• There are concerns that some Australians could be disadvantaged as the banking industry shifts towards digital transactions.
• National Seniors Australia's Chief Operating Officer has mentioned challenges around internet access in regional communities and the difficulties some face adapting to 'tap and go' transactions.
• Commonwealth Bank has reportedly increased the number of 'cashless' branches, raising concerns about increased transaction fees at ATMs and the loss of cash services for older Australians.
• In response, a Commonwealth Bank spokesperson clarified that cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all branches and Specialist Centres and have the largest branch network for customers in Australia.

In light of this, we must ask ourselves: Do these Specialist Centres do enough to bridge the digital divide for our citizens?

Navigating the digital world can be overwhelming for those accustomed to traditional banking methods.

While technological progress is inevitable and often beneficial, it is crucial to balance embracing advancements and ensuring inclusion for all.

Amid the efforts to move towards a cashless society, honouring those with differing preferences regarding handling money is also important.

Members, what are your thoughts on the increasing shift towards digital payments and the potential impact on individuals who may face challenges with this transition? Do you believe enough is being done to support you in the digital banking landscape?

If everyone who prefers to pay cash boycotts card only businesses they might regret the loss of patrionidge.

 

[Pameee]

From the healthcare industry to communication and even grocery shopping, digitalisation has become increasingly prevalent.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we closely monitor a notable development: the banking industry's rapid transition towards a cashless society.

As our world increasingly relies on digital technologies, there is a growing movement within the banking industry to reduce the reliance on physical cash.

However, it's important to consider the perspectives of individuals who may find this shift challenging.

View attachment 25551

The shift towards a cashless society has created significant challenges for those who rely on cash as their primary form of payment, such as the unbanked and elderly populations, exacerbating financial exclusion and limiting their access to essential goods and services. Image by naipo_de from Unsplash

Chris Grice, the Chief Operating Officer at National Seniors Australia, recently expressed concerns about the increasing push to discourage cash usage.

‘The feedback we're getting it is not as easy as, you know, just tap and go and away you go,’ he said.

Tap-and-go payments may seem convenient for some, but they present an unwelcome challenge for others, particularly when internet connectivity is sporadic, as is often the case in rural Australia.

The cost associated with digital transactions further exacerbates the situation.

Adding fuel to the fire, there have been reports suggesting that the Commonwealth Bank has been increasing its 'cashless' branches, a move that has been met with apprehension by older citizens who find comfort in the tangibility of cash transactions.

View attachment 25552

The digital divide and technological barriers further widen the gap, making it clear that the transition to a cashless society is far from inclusive and raises concerns about leaving vulnerable communities behind. Image from Flickr

Given these rattling reports, a spokesperson from the Commonwealth Bank issued a full statement:

They stated, ‘Cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all Commonwealth Bank branches and Specialist Centres.’

The Commonwealth Bank has created Specialist Centres in major metropolitan areas to provide personalised support for customers with more complex banking needs.

They added, ‘These Specialist Centres provide customers with face-to-face access to specialist home and business lenders and also offer the latest self-service technologies. All of our Specialist Centres are in major metropolitan locations and very nearby to full-service branches.’

‘We continue to maintain Australia's largest branch network for customers.’

Key Takeaways

• There are concerns that some Australians could be disadvantaged as the banking industry shifts towards digital transactions.
• National Seniors Australia's Chief Operating Officer has mentioned challenges around internet access in regional communities and the difficulties some face adapting to 'tap and go' transactions.
• Commonwealth Bank has reportedly increased the number of 'cashless' branches, raising concerns about increased transaction fees at ATMs and the loss of cash services for older Australians.
• In response, a Commonwealth Bank spokesperson clarified that cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all branches and Specialist Centres and have the largest branch network for customers in Australia.

In light of this, we must ask ourselves: Do these Specialist Centres do enough to bridge the digital divide for our citizens?

Navigating the digital world can be overwhelming for those accustomed to traditional banking methods.

While technological progress is inevitable and often beneficial, it is crucial to balance embracing advancements and ensuring inclusion for all.

Amid the efforts to move towards a cashless society, honouring those with differing preferences regarding handling money is also important.

Members, what are your thoughts on the increasing shift towards digital payments and the potential impact on individuals who may face challenges with this transition? Do you believe enough is being done to support you in the digital banking landscape?

My understanding is cash is still legal tender . Any business / retailer I encounter not taking cash doesn’t get my business .. if every one starts this practice the no cash issue will die very quickly
the younger generation is also overlooked kids / minors don’t have debit cards

 

[growroses]

From the healthcare industry to communication and even grocery shopping, digitalisation has become increasingly prevalent.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we closely monitor a notable development: the banking industry's rapid transition towards a cashless society.

As our world increasingly relies on digital technologies, there is a growing movement within the banking industry to reduce the reliance on physical cash.

However, it's important to consider the perspectives of individuals who may find this shift challenging.

View attachment 25551

The shift towards a cashless society has created significant challenges for those who rely on cash as their primary form of payment, such as the unbanked and elderly populations, exacerbating financial exclusion and limiting their access to essential goods and services. Image by naipo_de from Unsplash

Chris Grice, the Chief Operating Officer at National Seniors Australia, recently expressed concerns about the increasing push to discourage cash usage.

‘The feedback we're getting it is not as easy as, you know, just tap and go and away you go,’ he said.

Tap-and-go payments may seem convenient for some, but they present an unwelcome challenge for others, particularly when internet connectivity is sporadic, as is often the case in rural Australia.

The cost associated with digital transactions further exacerbates the situation.

Adding fuel to the fire, there have been reports suggesting that the Commonwealth Bank has been increasing its 'cashless' branches, a move that has been met with apprehension by older citizens who find comfort in the tangibility of cash transactions.

View attachment 25552

The digital divide and technological barriers further widen the gap, making it clear that the transition to a cashless society is far from inclusive and raises concerns about leaving vulnerable communities behind. Image from Flickr

Given these rattling reports, a spokesperson from the Commonwealth Bank issued a full statement:

They stated, ‘Cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all Commonwealth Bank branches and Specialist Centres.’

The Commonwealth Bank has created Specialist Centres in major metropolitan areas to provide personalised support for customers with more complex banking needs.

They added, ‘These Specialist Centres provide customers with face-to-face access to specialist home and business lenders and also offer the latest self-service technologies. All of our Specialist Centres are in major metropolitan locations and very nearby to full-service branches.’

‘We continue to maintain Australia's largest branch network for customers.’

Key Takeaways

• There are concerns that some Australians could be disadvantaged as the banking industry shifts towards digital transactions.
• National Seniors Australia's Chief Operating Officer has mentioned challenges around internet access in regional communities and the difficulties some face adapting to 'tap and go' transactions.
• Commonwealth Bank has reportedly increased the number of 'cashless' branches, raising concerns about increased transaction fees at ATMs and the loss of cash services for older Australians.
• In response, a Commonwealth Bank spokesperson clarified that cash withdrawals and deposits are available at all branches and Specialist Centres and have the largest branch network for customers in Australia.

In light of this, we must ask ourselves: Do these Specialist Centres do enough to bridge the digital divide for our citizens?

Navigating the digital world can be overwhelming for those accustomed to traditional banking methods.

While technological progress is inevitable and often beneficial, it is crucial to balance embracing advancements and ensuring inclusion for all.

Amid the efforts to move towards a cashless society, honouring those with differing preferences regarding handling money is also important.

Members, what are your thoughts on the increasing shift towards digital payments and the potential impact on individuals who may face challenges with this transition? Do you believe enough is being done to support you in the digital banking landscape?

when you are in carins and go on the tans link buses you must use CASH no go card any more why

 

[Smithsd]

I am technically savvy. I use digital bank transfers for my business, both for receipts and payments. I am terrified of being scammed and ripped off. In my personal life I withdraw cash weekly and only utilise that to make payments. Cash is still legal tender in Australia. If we acquiese and continue to use digital, we will lose cash. Then, how do you teach children the value of money? How do you teach them how to budget? How to put aside money and save? A century ago I was taught by my grandmother to allocate money in envelopes to pay for future bills. If you cannot physically experience this, how do you learn? Digital pockets? I don't think banks allow that. Many years ago I taught my children mathematics utilising 1 and 2 cent pieces and playing poker. I still have the tin containing these coins. I am also of the opinion that using a card increases spending as if you have cash, you know how much you have to spend, but if you just swipe away on the never never, you will overspend.

 

[relljube]

Any time I see a sign like that I walk out and refuse to shop there

Me too.

 

[relljube]

There has also been talk of cheque books becoming a thing of the past as digital is said to be safer. Also passbooks are also in the line of fire Soon maybe choices will be removed from our hands and we will have to migrate to digital. Incredibly hard for some to change a lifetime of habits.

Do you get the feeling that we oldies are just a nuisance to the progress of society?? Well tough - we are still here and if we want to use cash well bad luck - shops are legally required to accept cash as it is legal tender - if cash is such an inconvenience, don't give them your money - go elsewhere where your patronage is appreciated.