New year, new laws: January 1 changes for Australian businesses
From a national cash mandate and merger reforms, to new state-based laws, changes are on the way for Australian businesses in 2026.
The start of a new year always brings with it a host of changes for small and medium businesses, and 2026 will be no different.
From a national cash mandate and merger reforms to new state-based laws, it’s essential that all businesses know how the legal and regulatory landscape is changing next year.
Here are eight January 1 changes that Australian businesses need to know about.
National: Cash mandate
From January 1, 2026, Australian fuel and grocery retailers will be required to accept a maximum of $500 cash for essential items like groceries and fuel.
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