Aussie driver's defiant note and gold coins challenge cashless parking meters
- Replies 39
In a world where technology is rapidly advancing, it's no surprise that even the most mundane aspects of our daily lives, like parking our cars, are getting a digital makeover.
But what happens when these changes don't align with everyone's lifestyle or abilities?
One Aussie driver has sparked a conversation about this issue with a clever and defiant response to the introduction of cashless parking meters.
The driver, who has become a folk hero online, left a note that supporters hailed as 'genius' in their car window. Alongside two gold coins, the message read:
'The introduction of a cashless payment system does not suit my lifestyle. I am willing to pay with these coins any day of the week. Please do not issue a fine against this vehicle. Yours sincerely, Owner of this vehicle.'
This rebellion resonated with many, especially those marginalised by the relentless march towards a cashless society.
The note, shared on social media, received a wave of support from commenters who pointed out the challenges the elderly face when adapting to new technologies.
‘My father may have a smartphone... but like, does he have any idea how to work it other than as a phone... this is unacceptable and discrimination against the older generation!’ one user empathised.
‘I've watched so many elderly people struggle with this because they can't download the app. It's disgraceful,’ another user said.
‘Yes, I only identify as a cash-paying citizen,’ a third added.
The conversation also highlighted the hidden costs of cashless transactions, which can be a nasty surprise for the unwary.
'I recently used my debit card for a $ 3-meter charge, and lo and behold, I got a .32 cent additional charge for doing so… you try and find that on the fine print on the meter...' a frustrated user shared.
‘Our government needs to amend laws to stop banks controlling these transactions.‘ another chimed in.
‘Governments should always ensure their constituents have the right to pay cash in our society. The fees imposed by the banks are all added into prices we are paying.’
‘Tired of banks running the economy, need to open a government bank and encourage the use of cash as a payment again.’
The debate around cash versus cashless payments is not new, but it has intensified as more services move online or become app-based.
Some argue that this shift is a form of discrimination against those who prefer cash or are not tech-savvy.
Others see it as an inevitable step towards efficiency and modernisation.
While a minority defended the move to cashless systems, suggesting that businesses have the right to choose their method of payment.
‘What people don't get is the method of payment, which is determined by the person selling the service or goods. If they don't want cash, then that's their choice.’ one said.
‘As a potential customer, you have the choice of using the service and paying in the way set out, or you cannot use the service and go elsewhere.’
‘One thing is certain, businesses that have convenience of payment, like apps and contactless, will do better than those that don't.’
‘Stop living in the past and modernise.’
In a news article about a cashless society, KFC customers were frustrated when a branch adopted a card-only policy.
A sign at the Morisset location stated that only 'contact-free' payments are accepted, leading to service denial for an elderly man who wished to pay with cash. Read more about it here.
Have you encountered similar issues with cashless systems, or do you embrace their convenience? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
But what happens when these changes don't align with everyone's lifestyle or abilities?
One Aussie driver has sparked a conversation about this issue with a clever and defiant response to the introduction of cashless parking meters.
The driver, who has become a folk hero online, left a note that supporters hailed as 'genius' in their car window. Alongside two gold coins, the message read:
'The introduction of a cashless payment system does not suit my lifestyle. I am willing to pay with these coins any day of the week. Please do not issue a fine against this vehicle. Yours sincerely, Owner of this vehicle.'
This rebellion resonated with many, especially those marginalised by the relentless march towards a cashless society.
Australian driver protests cashless parking meters with a note and two gold coins in their window. Credit: Reddit
The note, shared on social media, received a wave of support from commenters who pointed out the challenges the elderly face when adapting to new technologies.
‘My father may have a smartphone... but like, does he have any idea how to work it other than as a phone... this is unacceptable and discrimination against the older generation!’ one user empathised.
‘I've watched so many elderly people struggle with this because they can't download the app. It's disgraceful,’ another user said.
‘Yes, I only identify as a cash-paying citizen,’ a third added.
The conversation also highlighted the hidden costs of cashless transactions, which can be a nasty surprise for the unwary.
'I recently used my debit card for a $ 3-meter charge, and lo and behold, I got a .32 cent additional charge for doing so… you try and find that on the fine print on the meter...' a frustrated user shared.
‘Our government needs to amend laws to stop banks controlling these transactions.‘ another chimed in.
‘Governments should always ensure their constituents have the right to pay cash in our society. The fees imposed by the banks are all added into prices we are paying.’
‘Tired of banks running the economy, need to open a government bank and encourage the use of cash as a payment again.’
The debate around cash versus cashless payments is not new, but it has intensified as more services move online or become app-based.
Some argue that this shift is a form of discrimination against those who prefer cash or are not tech-savvy.
Others see it as an inevitable step towards efficiency and modernisation.
While a minority defended the move to cashless systems, suggesting that businesses have the right to choose their method of payment.
‘What people don't get is the method of payment, which is determined by the person selling the service or goods. If they don't want cash, then that's their choice.’ one said.
‘As a potential customer, you have the choice of using the service and paying in the way set out, or you cannot use the service and go elsewhere.’
‘One thing is certain, businesses that have convenience of payment, like apps and contactless, will do better than those that don't.’
‘Stop living in the past and modernise.’
In a news article about a cashless society, KFC customers were frustrated when a branch adopted a card-only policy.
A sign at the Morisset location stated that only 'contact-free' payments are accepted, leading to service denial for an elderly man who wished to pay with cash. Read more about it here.
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