If you’re anything like us, you love a good bargain—especially regarding your health and household essentials.

That’s why Chemist Warehouse has long been a favourite among Aussie seniors, offering everyday low prices on everything from prescriptions to vitamins and toiletries.

But now, the discount pharmacy giant is taking things a step further, rolling out a new way to pay that could help you (and millions of other Aussies) dodge those pesky hidden card fees—and even earn something extra in the process!


Chemist Warehouse has just launched a new payment option called 'Pay by Bank' at all of its stores nationwide.

Instead of tapping your card or handing over cash, you can now scan a QR code at the checkout using the ShopBack app on your smartphone.

This new system, developed in partnership with Banked and ShopBack, is the first of its kind in Australia for in-store shopping.


So, what’s the big deal? By paying directly from your bank account via the QR code, you can completely bypass the fees that banks and card companies (like Visa and Mastercard) usually charge retailers for processing card payments.

These fees might seem small, but they add up—Chemist Warehouse alone spends more than $15 million a year on them! While the company says it doesn’t pass these costs directly onto customers, reducing them helps keep prices low for everyone.


But the good news doesn’t stop there. Using the ShopBack app to Pay by Bank, you’ll also be eligible for cashback and rewards on your purchases.

That means you can save money on your essentials and get a little bonus back in your pocket—something we can all appreciate, especially with the rising cost of living.

You might be wondering why there’s so much fuss about card surcharges.

According to the Reserve Bank of Australia, Aussies pay nearly $1 billion every year in card surcharges—fees often hidden or tacked on at the last minute.

While some retailers absorb these costs, others pass them on to customers, making your shop more expensive than you expected.

The government has announced plans to ban debit card surcharges from January 2026, but until then, these fees are still a reality for many shoppers.

QR code payments have become hugely popular in countries like India and across Southeast Asia, and they’re catching on fast here in Australia.

Major retailers like Muji, Vodafone, MJ Bale, and L’Occitane have already adopted similar systems, and banks like Commonwealth Bank and NAB are rolling out their QR payment options.

For seniors who might be hesitant about new technology, rest assured: the process is designed to be secure and straightforward.

You don’t need to fumble with cards or remember PINs—just scan, confirm, and you’re done. Plus, with the added bonus of cashback, it’s well worth trying.

Chemist Warehouse’s move is a win-win for customers.

Not only does it help keep prices low by reducing transaction costs, but it also gives you more choice at the checkout and the chance to earn rewards on your everyday purchases.

As more retailers jump on board with QR code payments, we can expect to see even more ways to save in the future.
Have you tried the new Pay by Bank option at Chemist Warehouse yet? Are you a fan of QR code payments, or do you prefer sticking with cash and cards? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!