Aussie hotspot blasted for cashless move

One of Australia’s most popular islands has made a move that’s left Aussies furious with some even vowing to “boycott” the hotspot.

Hamilton Island is one of Australia’s most popular tourist spots having attracted the likes of celebrities including Taylor Swift, Oprah Winfrey, Pink and more recently Jackie ‘O’ Henderson.

But the privately-owned island has made a decision that not everyone is happy about.

Located north of Mackay in North Queensland, the island no longer accepts cash. It first introduced a cashless system during the pandemic due to health reasons.

According to its website, it will continue to operate that way, citing “health and wellbeing benefits, convenience and security” for the policy.

“Cashless payments facilitate seamless, contactless transactions, promoting a hygienic environment for the wellbeing of both guests and staff,” the website reads.

Hamilton Island has decided to remain cashless after it first introduced the policy during the pandemic for health reasons. Picture: istock

“Embracing cashless payments provides a hassle-free and efficient way for our guests to make payments, eliminating the need to carry cash or deal with change.

“Prioritising your safety, cashless transactions significantly reduce the risk of loss or theft, offering secure and traceable financial transactions.”

Part of the Whitsundays, and in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, it is one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations, attracting 2 million visitors alone to the marine park last year.

However, its popularity could be comprised given the major backlash its copped over its cashless move.

Furious Aussies have taken to social media to vent over the policy.

The move has sparked a massive division with some Aussies slamming the island over the move, while others defend it. Picture: X/Matkins2021

“Been to Hamilton Island three times loved it. Going cashless......never going again/my family/all my friends I used to organise to go there/all the people I speak to on my current travels,” one person wrote on the official Hamilton Island Facebook page.

Another person said they also won’t be going, encouraging others to “boycott” the tourist spot.

“Aussie island goes cashless = I hope people get behind this and boycott, hope you go bust, People need to wake up and force govt to stop banks from dictating the public,” they wrote.

A third added: “CASHLESS!!!!!!! Big fail!!! Hope everyone stays away!!”

Anther said they cancelled their trip because it was only cashless.

“Sorry Hamilton Island, have had to cancel my trip as I can’t stand for a cashless society,” they said.

The island cited ‘health and wellbeing benefits, convenience and security’ for the policy. Picture: istock

The site notes that on the island a “non-refundable 1.25 per cent surcharge applies for all ‘credit’ and ‘tap and go’ transactions made via credit or debit card”.

But this surcharge can be avoided by inserting your card and paying by cheque or savings.

“Fee free payments can be made via EFTPOS.”

A 1.25 per cent surcharge applies to credit and tap and go transactions made on the island via credit or debit cards.

Some have even vowed to ‘boycott’ the private island located north of Mackay in North Queensland. Picture: istock

Cash deposits and withdrawals can also be made using the Bank@Post service at the Australia Post office on the island, where cash can also be exchanged for prepaid or top-up MasterCards.

“So Hamilton Island has become cashless. It’s about to get far less visitors,” another annoyed tourist wrote on the island’s Facebook page.

“I have, like most people, both a credit card and my bank accounts linked to my phone … BUT I’ll use them when I decide not when you decide. Let’s see how that decision works for you.”

The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission’s website states that businesses can choose which payment types they accept, but it must be made clear to consumers before they make a purchase.

“It is legal for a business to specify the terms and conditions that they will supply goods and services. This includes whether they will accept cash payment,” the advice reads.

“However, consumers must be made aware of these terms and conditions before they make a purchase.

“Businesses should be clear about the types of payments they accept and the total price payable.”

While many have vented their fury over the move, others have stepped in to defend the island.

“Aussies struggling to adapt to change,” one person wrote.

“Why has being cashless all of a sudden become such a big deal. Hamilton Island had been cashless since they reopened after covid,” one person pointed out.

“That’s four years of being cashless. It was their covid plan that allowed them to reopen to the public and people could start holidaying again. I use my phone everyday and never have cash on me.”

News.com.au has contacted Hamilton Island officials for comment